Chael Sonnen is the latest celebrity to challenge YouTube megastar, Jake Paul. However, Sonnen has no desire to fight Paul in a boxing ring. Instead, he has challenged the YouTuber turned professional boxer to a grappling match at Submission Underground.
It all started when a fan on Twitter asked Sonnen if he wanted to compete at Submission Underground. ‘The American Gangster’ responded by saying he would fight Paul.
Is Chael Sonnen at odds with Jake Paul?
For a variety of reasons, Sonnen’s challenge to Jake Paul should not be taken seriously.
Paul is unlikely to agree to compete in a wrestling match against a former UFC fighter outside of the boxing ring. Second, Sonnen’s challenge is more likely to be friendly banter than a call-out.
Several UFC fighters, including Daniel Cormier, Kamaru Usman, and Marvin Vettori, have criticised Paul. Sonnen, on the other hand, is one of the few MMA fighters who have a good friendship with Jake Paul.
Sonnen revealed in an episode of his YouTube show that he used to believe Paul “can’t box” and “can’t beat Ben Askren” before ‘The Problem Child’ proved him wrong. He’s been gushing about Paul ever since.
Paul’s future a mystery
Paul has dominated the combat sports landscape since his knockout win over former UFC welterweight Ben Askren.
Since then, rumours have circulated that ‘The Problem Child’ will face either Bellator middleweight Dillon Danis or light heavyweight boxer Tommy Fury in his next fight. Paul’s promoters, on the other hand, are yet to announce the YouTuber’s next fight.
Meanwhile, his older brother Logan is set to compete in an exhibition match against boxing legend Floyd Mayweather. The event will take place in Miami, Florida on June 6.
After sparking a scuffle by snatching Mayweather’s cap during a press event, the notorious internet star was barred from attending his brother’s highly-awaited boxing match.
Read more: Report: Chaos in Miami after Jake Paul steals Floyd Mayweather’s cap during press conference