Jake Paul told he’s good for boxing but “a disaster” for UFC amid Dana White row

Paul has gone 5-0 in boxing and created his own management label in the sport, but the YouTube star has also been outspoken over fighter pay issues in the UFC

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Eddie Hearn talks co-promoting with Jake Paul

Eddie Hearn thinks Jake Paul is a good addition to boxing but causes problems for the UFC after speaking out over fighter pay issues.

The Matchroom Boxing boss will co-promote the undisputed lightweight title fight between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano on April 30 alongside Paul.

Paul signed unified featherweight champion Serrano to Most Valuable Promotions last year, with the Puerto Rican fighting on the undercard of his last two bouts.

‘The Problem Child’ has called out UFC fighters such as Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz for a fight, pleading with Dana White to let them step in the ring.

He has criticised White for “underpaying” his fighters and released a ‘ diss track ‘ of the UFC boss last week.

And Hearn thinks Paul speaking put over UFC fighter pay will but pressure on the promotion.

“There will be more pressure on the organisation as time goes by, especially with the voice and noise of someone like Jake Paul,” Hearn told The MMA Hour.

“Jake Paul’s a disaster for those guys. [He is sincere], but also I think he’s got a bee in his bonnet and he’s having fun with it, and I think he’s on a mission. But do I think he feels that UFC fighters are underpaid? Yeah, for sure.”

“I think he’s not everybody’s cup of tea, but you can’t start arguing with him, as Dana’s found out. That diss track is outrageous. I thought it was really good.

“I like both guys, but I did watch it and go [covers his mouth], ‘What time’s the legal letter coming?’

“But it’s kind of good in that you can never take life too seriously, and in that instance, I say they’re both good for each other.”

Fighters alike have been divided over Paul’s move from YouTube stardom into boxing, with many feeling he is undeserving of the attention he receives.

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Others have questioned the legitimacy of his campaign to increase UFC fighter pay, stating he is only doing so for personal gain.

And Hearn thinks Paul is good for boxing as he brings in a new audience.

He continued: “I think fighters, because of what they’ve sacrificed, sometimes hold it against Jake Paul and say, ‘Well, I’ve been grinding in the gym for 15 years!’

“Yeah, but you’re not good enough and you haven’t built the profile that he’s built. Why shouldn’t he be allowed to do that? He’s put in the work in the gym.

“He’s fallen in love with the sport, genuinely, and I think he’s good for boxing. I think he brings a different kind of audience.”