Retired MMA Fighter Agrees To Fight Jake Paul; Bout Date Officially Set For March 2021

Internet sensation Jake Paul and company are looking for a fight and they just got one.

His next opponent will be retired mixed martial artist Ben Askren, a name that was originally on his first list. But “Funky” found enough reason to compete again, one of many niotable names who want to humble the 23-year-old up.

“Yes, Mr. Jake Paul, I do accept. I know you called me out after that last fight against that bum Nate Robinson. And listen, it’s a pretty simple choice. I’m going to make a whole bunch of money to beat up a guy who is pretending to be an athlete," the 36-year-old said on a video on his official Twitter account.

"Because at the end of the day, that’s what you’re doing. I know you may think I don’t have too many standup skills. Also at the end of the day, I don’t really need to.”

There is no telling what kind of condition Askren is in. He retired in November 2019 after a loss to Demian Maia. It was his second-straight defeat.

It would also be best to note that Askren got a full hip replacement this fall. He says he feels good as new, which could spell added trouble for the YouTuber.

Though Askren has proven that he is someone that no person would want to mess with in combat sports, his time in MMA was not best known for his striking.

The former NCAA Division I may need some help familiarizing himself with boxing to avoid falling prey to the same fate of former NBA player Nate Robinson.

Askren will have to learn fast although his experience in combat sports may make it easier. He has roughly three months to prepare with the encounter against Paul set for Mar. 28, 2021.

This development fulfills the wish of Paul’s trainer who wanted an MMA fighter next. BJ Flores is confident in his pupil, pointing out how the YouTube star can throw a punch.

"Jake has a lot more tools in the bag. I want him in there with a real MMA fighter next. These other influencers or trained pro athletes don’t stand a chance," Flores said.

Before Askren accepting the fight, Dillon Danis loomed as a potential opponent for Jake Paul. He recently spoiled an interview session with Conor McGregor’s friend by throwing water balloons while on a vehicle.

It could have been a way to get the Irishman’s attention or rile Danis into facing him in the ring.