Kenny Florian, the PFL color commentator, believes that a crossover doubleheader featuring Jake Paul and Nate Diaz could happen as early as 2024. While MMA fighters have ventured into boxing and vice versa, a matchup like Paul vs. Diaz in the PFL is still unprecedented. Both Paul and PFL chairman Donn Davis have expressed interest in such a fight.
Florian finds the idea intriguing, stating that it opens up new opportunities for fighters to explore different combat sports. He believes it’s feasible and envisions the potential for a pay-per-view spectacle with two big names like Nate Diaz and Jake Paul.
PFL has reportedly made a $10 million offer to Diaz for a fight against Paul in the PFL SmartCage, but first, Diaz must face Paul in a 10-round professional boxing bout this Saturday in Dallas. Florian sees this bout as a significant opportunity for Diaz, as a win would boost his negotiating power when he considers returning to MMA.
Florian is fascinated by the fight for several reasons. He acknowledges Diaz’s strong boxing background, making him a formidable opponent. At the same time, he gives credit to Jake Paul for transitioning from YouTube stardom to professional boxing successfully. Florian believes Diaz has advantages heading into the fight, with his boxing experience and endurance being key factors. However, he warns that Paul’s knockout power in the early rounds poses a threat. Ultimately, Florian sees Diaz as the favorite, but he expects a tough battle from Jake Paul.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about crossover
Q: What does Kenny Florian believe could happen between Jake Paul and Nate Diaz?
A: Kenny Florian believes that Jake Paul and Nate Diaz could face each other in a crossover doubleheader, possibly in the PFL (Professional Fighters League), as early as 2024.
Q: Have there been instances of MMA fighters crossing over to boxing or vice versa?
A: Yes, there have been instances of MMA fighters transitioning to boxing and vice versa. However, a crossover doubleheader in the PFL is still unprecedented.
Q: Why does Kenny Florian find the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz matchup intriguing?
A: Kenny Florian finds the matchup intriguing because it presents new opportunities for fighters to explore different combat sports and allows for a unique blend of MMA and boxing stars.
Q: What offer has the PFL made to Nate Diaz for a fight against Jake Paul?
A: The PFL has reportedly made a $10 million offer to Nate Diaz to face Jake Paul in the PFL SmartCage.
Q: What is Nate Diaz’s current focus before possibly resuming his MMA career?
A: Before possibly resuming his MMA career, Nate Diaz will face Jake Paul in a 10-round professional boxing bout.
Q: How does Kenny Florian assess the chances of Nate Diaz against Jake Paul in the boxing match?
A: Kenny Florian sees Nate Diaz as the favorite heading into the fight due to his strong boxing background and legendary motor. However, he warns that Jake Paul’s knockout power in the early rounds can be a threat.
More about crossover
- PFL website
- Jake Paul’s official website
- Nate Diaz’s official UFC profile
- Donn Davis – PFL Chairman
- PFL SmartCage
- [Nate Diaz vs. Jake Paul boxing match details](Link not available as it is a hypothetical scenario mentioned in the text)
- Kenny Florian’s Twitter account
