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Oleksandr Usyk Vs. Jake Paul – Will It Happen?

Originally posted on BoxingNews.com | Last updated Sep 25, 2025 12:04 AM ET

Oleksandr Usyk, Undisputed heavyweight champion, has responded to Jake Paul’s ambitions, firing back at him after he was named on Paul’s “hitlist.”

Usyk reacted after Paul named him as one of his combat sports goals. Paul is currently scheduled to face Gervonta Davis in their November 14 exhibition. However, Paul has ambitions of facing Usyk in an MMA fight. The Problem Child signed a deal with The PFL in 2023, but has yet to make his debut, although he had a face off with Usyk after the latter’s wins over Daniel Dubois. Usyk has now stated that he would fight Paul once his boxing journey is over.

Oleksandr Usyk responds to Jake Paul's "five-year plan" pic.twitter.com/4br4rf7aoh
— MMA Fighting (@MMAFighting) September 24, 2025

The Approach

Usyk’s path to victory would rely on his elite boxing skills, unparalleled footwork, and cardio. As a southpaw with a high ring IQ, he would use his movement to stay on the outside, frustrate Paul, and land clean punches. His strategy would be to use his jab and combinations to pick Paul apart and land clean shots while avoiding any close-quarters exchanges. The biggest question for Usyk is his grappling and takedown defense. While that may be the case, Usyk does have a wrestling background.

Jake Paul’s tactical approach would be built on his size and his MMA training. He is a much bigger man than Usyk, and he has been training for an MMA debut for years. He has a wrestling background, and he has a powerful right hand that could be a factor. His game plan would be to immediately close the distance and get the fight to the ground. He would use his wrestling and size to pin Usyk against the cage and look for a takedown.

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

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