Jake Paul eyes cruiserweight comeback in 2026
Jake Paul is setting his sights on a cruiserweight boxing comeback before 2026 concludes, according to his business partner at Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), reports BritPanorama.
The 29-year-old American, who became prominent as an internet personality, has been out of action since suffering a sixth-round knockout defeat to Anthony Joshua last December. This defeat caused significant injuries, including a broken jaw, which required surgery to insert two titanium plates and the removal of several teeth.
This loss marked only the second setback in Paul’s boxing career and saw him removed from the WBA’s cruiserweight rankings. However, he now aims to compete in that weight class again.
Bidarian stated, “I think his focus is on cruiserweight, outside of a potential boxing match against Francis Ngannou. His goal is to return before year-end. I saw pictures of him back in the gym with his boxing coach yesterday. So take that for what you will.”
While cruiserweight remains his primary focus, a potential heavyweight match against Ngannou has not been ruled out. The former UFC heavyweight champion is due to face Brazilian fighter Philipe Lins on May 16 as part of the undercard for Ronda Rousey’s return, which is being promoted by MVP.
Ngannou has faced defeats to both Tyson Fury in 2023 and Joshua in 2024, making him a viable opponent for Paul. Tensions between the fighters escalated during a March press conference when Paul taunted Ngannou for allegedly evading him, to which Ngannou responded with clear intent to fight.
Beyond boxing, Paul has expressed consistent interest in competing in MMA. Bidarian indicated that the winner of the upcoming Nate Diaz versus Mike Perry bout on the Rousey-Carano undercard could offer an excellent opportunity for Paul, who has previously secured wins against both fighters.
As Paul prepares for his return, the boxing community remains attentive to how his next moves will unfold, marking another chapter in the career of a fighter who is as polarizing as he is popular.
