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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Ben Davies

UFC legend Donald Cerrone opens door to fight with YouTuber Jake Paul

Retired UFC legend Donald Cerrone is open to a lucrative boxing clash with Jake Paul.

YouTube star Paul has made a huge impression in the fighting world since gracing the boxing ring having defeated the likes of former UFC champions Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley. It is expected the YouTube star will attempt to continue to face fighters from the promotion in boxing clashes including superstars Nate Diaz and Conor McGregor.

Many of the fighters from the UFC are unlikely to be able to accept the clash while tied down to a contract. However 170lb veteran Cerrone, who recently confirmed his retirement after losing to Jim Miller at UFC 276 in July, has pledged his support to the YouTube star if he is able to earn a huge payday.

“Would I like to fight him?” Cerrone said during an interview with Thiccc Boy Studios when discussing a potential showdown with Paul. “How could I say no to millions of dollars? I would definitely go out there and do it, but I’m not sitting here saying, ‘Jake you’re a YouTuber, you’re not worth a f**k, blah blah blah.’ No, man.

"You’re making money and if you want to throw some money my way, I’m with you. The Jake Paul phenomenon is kind of crazy, it’s got everyone calling him out. “It’s kind of like the big Conor push. I feel like that’s happening with Jake Paul. Everyone wants in, and I don’t see why they wouldn’t, that’s a big money fight. You can't take it away from him.

"Everyone is saying those are rigged fights, and I think he’s hitting hard. I really do think those are legitimate shots and strikes, and he’s been practicing boxing, and he’s whipping their a**es. I don’t think there’s any missed hype, I think he’s got something going.”

Jake Paul defeated UFC legend Anderson Silva in October (Getty Images)

Who wins if the pair meet in the boxing ring - Jake Paul or Donald Cerrone? Let us know in the comments section below

Paul is expected to have a busy 2023 and is planning a number of lucrative fights as he continues to eye his ultimate goal of becoming a boxing world champion. It is expected the YouTube star's maiden test of the year will come against long-term rival Tommy Fury who he will look to secure a fight with at a third attempt.

The 'Problem Child' announced his intentions to lace up his gloves three times this year after a frustrating 2022 which saw him only compete once after the collapse of several bouts including against Hasim Rahman Jr. If the American's social media activity is to be taken at face value, it appears Paul could look to pick up two wins before setting up his publicly agreed clash with YouTube rival KSI in the UK late this year.

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