Having battled to a stalemate with UFC icon Jose Aldo in a thrilling bout last April, Jeremy Stephens is eager to maintain momentum in his boxing career.
His forthcoming fight will feature in the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz pay-per-view event, where he will confront Diaz’s longtime sparring partner Chris Avila. Stephens is hopeful that this fight might catapult him into even more significant opportunities down the line.
“I fell head over heels for the journey of becoming the finest boxer I could,” Stephens shared with MMA Hook. “With these opportunities floating around and these MMA fighters out there up for grabs, I wanted in on the action.”
Despite his extensive MMA background, Stephens admits he is still a work in progress in the boxing ring, which is why he’s taking a measured approach to his new career.
He is keen on the idea of testing himself against other MMA fighters transitioning to boxing, which is why his bout against Aldo and now Avila, who made a similar transition, was fitting.
A notable bout often suggested is a clash with Conor McGregor, who took a headfirst dive into boxing when he fought Floyd Mayweather in 2017. Following his draw with Aldo, Stephens was briefly on McGregor’s radar. The Irish superstar suggested a match and initiated a verbal conflict on social media, reigniting a former rivalry from a memorable UFC press conference.
“I’ve consistently maintained that I match well with someone like him,” Stephens commented on McGregor. “But I believe his legs falter in the later rounds, and that’s when I pick up the pace. I can take a hit. I train like Mike Tyson. I have a solid chin, brutal power, swift hands, experience, and a keen mind. On August 5, I aim to make a mark and seize those opportunities we’re discussing. I’m putting in the work and come August 5, it’ll all be mine.”
Apart from the McGregor duel, Stephens is eager to face any other big names, including Diaz, who will make his boxing debut against Paul.
Stephens spoke highly of Diaz and believes the Stockton native stands a good chance of causing an upset against Paul, who has a 6-1 boxing record, including four knockouts.
“Jake has some boxing ability, he’s athletic, explosive, and packs power,” Stephens observed. “He’s attracting attention, but it’s a lot of pressure. On the flip side, Nate’s been in high-profile fights. He can last, he can take a hit, and he’s a genuine fighter. He doesn’t back down. He has that tenacity. I believe Jake Paul possesses a lot of these qualities but lacks the fighter’s spirit. He may have a hunger, but he’s not desperate like Nate. I think Nate could outlast him in the late rounds. The question is, can Nate withstand Jake’s power?
“I attribute more intelligence and experience to Nate in this scenario. That’s why I’m split on the outcome. Tune in. It promises to be an exciting one. It could swing either way.”
Regardless of the result, Stephens would willingly take on Diaz, particularly since they were part of the same UFC roster but never actually faced off in the cage.
“I would relish that,” Stephens stated. “I’m on the verge of defeating someone similar to Nate, so if that’s what’s up next, whether Paul knocks him out or not, it’s just another opportunity.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Jeremy Stephens
Who did Jeremy Stephens draw with in a UFC match last April?
Jeremy Stephens battled to a draw with UFC legend Jose Aldo last April.
Who is Jeremy Stephens’ next opponent?
Jeremy Stephens’ next opponent is Chris Avila, Nate Diaz’s longtime training partner.
What was Conor McGregor’s interaction with Jeremy Stephens after the latter’s draw with Aldo?
After Jeremy Stephens’ draw with Aldo, Conor McGregor initiated a verbal conflict on social media, suggesting a match and reigniting a former rivalry.
What are Jeremy Stephens’ views on Conor McGregor’s boxing skills?
Jeremy Stephens believes that he matches up well with McGregor, and he has a good chance against him, especially in the later rounds when McGregor’s legs start to falter.
What does Jeremy Stephens think of Nate Diaz’s chances against Jake Paul?
Jeremy Stephens believes Nate Diaz has a good chance of causing an upset against Jake Paul due to his experience, resilience, and true fighting spirit.
Is Jeremy Stephens open to fighting Diaz after the latter’s match with Jake Paul?
Yes, Jeremy Stephens would willingly take on Diaz regardless of the result of Diaz’s fight with Jake Paul. He relishes the opportunity, especially since they were part of the same UFC roster but never actually faced off in the cage.
More about Jeremy Stephens
- Jeremy Stephens MMA stats
- Conor McGregor’s boxing record
- Nate Diaz’s MMA record
- Details on Jake Paul’s boxing career
- Chris Avila’s fighting career
5 comments
Can’t wait for Aug 5! Jeremy’s got the spirit, but will it be enough… the guy’s new to boxing after all.
Nate Diaz boxing debut, woah! am I the only one who’s super pumped to see this? Jake paul better watch out.
i see Stephens doing good in boxing! Dude’s tough, just needs time. But Conor or Diaz? Not so sure man…
stephens is dreaming if he thinks he can just jump into boxing like this…but then again so was McGregor. Let’s see how this plays out.
Man, Stephens vs McGregor would be a hell of a fight! Really think he’s got a shot, especially with Conor’s legs givin out later on…