Jake Paul eyeing fight with rugby legend Sonny Bill Williams
Williams retired from rugby in 2021 and has kept his undefeated boxing record
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul is eyeing a fight with former rugby star Sonny Bill Williams and it could take place this year.
Williams, 36, retired from rugby in 2021 after winning two rugby union World Cups with New Zealand and conquering rugby league as well. He is now a professional boxer and is 9-0 in his career. Williams was listed by Paul as an opponent that the American wants to face, but the social media star admits there are many people he wants to take on in the ring.
“There are a lot of people on my list,” Paul told the Mirror. “I would love to take out an Australian, as much as I love everyone from Australia – shout out to George Kambosos.
“Yeah, that would be a big fight [against Williams]. I think we both have bright careers ahead of us and at some point I do see us getting in the ring together and handling it.”
Williams most recently claimed a first-round stoppage of Barry Hill and is looking to get back in the ring later this year. He confirmed that his management are speaking to Paul’s, so the bout could in fact take place soon.
“I’m maybe looking at August, getting back in the ring,” Williams told Nine and Stan Sport over the weekend. “Jake Paul, his people have reached out to mine and they’re talking, so who knows? The main thing is I’m very excited and very grateful to be back in the ring.”
Paul hasn’t fought since his rematch with Tyron Woodley in December. The 25-year-old is currently 5-0 in his professional boxing career, but he is yet to go up against a professional boxer.
His wins have come against fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib, former basketball star Nate Robinson and ex-UFC fighters Ben Askren and Woodley. Paul was set to fight Tommy Fury in December, but Fury – half-brother of heavyweight champion Tyson – pulled out due to injury and illness.
Tommy Fury won on Tyson’s undercard on Saturday before calling out Paul.
Paul, however, was dismissive of the Briton’s challenge.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments