Jake Paul is preparing to step back into the ring on Christmas Eve in Dubai, though his opponent remains unconfirmed as negotiations continue behind the scenes. According to Sky Sports, the YouTuber-turned-boxer has lined up his comeback fight following a lengthy absence from competition.
The bout will mark Paul's first outing since his encounter with Anthony Joshua, the former two-time unified heavyweight world champion, where he sustained a broken jaw from a knockout blow in the sixth round. According to Geo Super, Paul was medically cleared to box again after undergoing two surgeries to reconstruct his jaw, clearing the way for his return to the sport.
Paul's professional record now stands at 12-2, with seven knockouts to his name since turning professional. His 2024 campaign included a fight against Mike Tyson, adding another notable name to his list of opponents.
Several high-profile fighters have been mentioned as potential opponents for the Dubai showdown. Darren Till is among the opponents being discussed, but no fight is signed, with previous discussions also involving former UFC fighter Francis Ngannou, British boxer Chris Eubank Jr, and WBC welterweight world champion Ryan Garcia.
Speaking about his return, Paul expressed his determination to move forward.
I've spent years proving people wrong, taking risks, and pushing myself against opponents nobody thought I'd face. Nothing that's happened has changed my belief in myself or what I'm working toward. I'm hungrier than ever, and on Thursday, December 24, I'm returning to the ring in Dubai to start the next chapter of my journey.
He continued by explaining his choice of location.
Dubai is a city that thinks big, breaks boundaries, and doesn't believe in limits. That's exactly the kind of place I want to make my comeback.
Paul acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his opponent's identity.
We've got plenty of names on the list; let's see who signs the contract. Merry Christmas, Dubai. Santa Paul is coming to town, and somebody's getting knocked out.
Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder and CEO of Most Valuable Promotions, offered insight into the negotiations.
Jake Paul has spent his career challenging what people think is possible. Twelve months ago he suffered a double broken jaw against a two-time heavyweight world champion and since then many have doubted his desire or need to return to boxing.
Bidarian emphasised Paul's commitment to the sport.
Well he is back, and that tells you everything about the competitor Jake Paul is and how much he loves this sport. This is more than a fight.
We're finalising an opponent worthy of Jake's return and look forward to sharing more in the coming weeks.
Negotiations ongoing for opponent and broadcast details
Nakisa Bidarian said the team is negotiating with four potential opponents for Paul's return, which could take place in late 2026 or early 2027, with the opponent helping to determine the location and distribution. The complexity of finalising both the fighter and broadcast arrangements means the timeline remains fluid.
Bidarian indicated that the timing depends on finalizing the opponent and broadcast distribution, and if negotiations take several more weeks, the fight could move to early 2027. This flexibility suggests that while Christmas Eve remains the target date, the promotion is willing to adjust if the right opponent and distribution deal cannot be secured in time.
