Jake Paul Cleared for Boxing Return, Targets Strickland and UFC Stars
Jake Paul has been medically cleared to return to the ring after recovering from a broken jaw suffered in his knockout loss to Anthony Joshua. The YouTuber-turned-boxer revealed a list of prospective opponents across boxing and MMA, sparking an exchange with UFC fighter Sean Strickland.
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Jake Paul has received medical clearance to resume his boxing career following an extended recovery from a broken jaw, according to Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian. Paul was sidelined after suffering a sixth-round knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in December 2025. The injury required initial surgery followed by a second procedure in February.
With his clearance confirmed, Paul released a broad list of potential opponents spanning both boxing and mixed martial arts. The names listed include boxing stars Canelo Alvarez, Ryan Garcia, and Edgar Berlanga, alongside crossover and MMA notables Francis Ngannou, KSI, Conor McGregor, Nate Diaz, Darren Till, and UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall.
Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland was among those targeted and quickly responded on social media. Strickland voiced frustration regarding UFC fighter compensation in comparison to stars like McGregor, noting he was contemplating a move to 205 pounds to fight out his UFC contract before facing Paul. Paul, who has frequently criticized UFC pay structures, replied to Strickland asking if he is currently out of his promotional contract.
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