In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the combat sports world, UFC legend Nate Diaz has placed a $20,000 bet on Jake Paul to score a monumental upset against Anthony Joshua.
The High-Stakes Wager
The former UFC welterweight, who famously boxed Paul two years ago, publicly shared a betting slip confirming his hefty stake on the 'Problem Child'. Should Paul defy the overwhelming odds and emerge victorious, Diaz stands to pocket a staggering $142,000 from his high-risk investment. This bold bet comes despite widespread expectation within the boxing fraternity that Joshua will make quick work of his social media star opponent.
Fight Details and Stakes
The professional heavyweight clash is scheduled for December 19 in Miami, contested over eight three-minute rounds with both fighters wearing 10oz gloves. The money-spinning event is set to be streamed live on Netflix, with UK fans able to watch from around 4am. Both men are expected to earn up to £70 million from the super-fight, a life-changing sum even for fighters accustomed to huge paydays.
Paul, who holds a 12-1 record built largely on victories over former UFC fighters, has not fought since his points win over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June. His only professional defeat came against Tommy Fury two years ago. This bout unquestionably represents the toughest test of his boxing career.
Paul's Confidence and Joshua's Perceived Weaknesses
Despite being a huge underdog, Paul has expressed unwavering confidence in his ability to shock the world. At the launch press conference, he stated, "No one thinks I’m going to win so join the list and be ready to be shocked. I know that I have the power and the timing. It's the shots you don't see coming, and I'm a tricky knockout artist."
The 28-year-old went so far as to declare he is "ready to die to win this fight" and predicted a fourth or fifth-round knockout. Paul believes he has identified key weaknesses in Joshua's game, specifically citing the Brit's footwork, rhythm, and tendency to cross his feet. He pointed to Joshua's past losses to smaller, faster fighters like Andy Ruiz Jr and Oleksandr Usyk as evidence of a potential 'kryptonite'.
As the December 19 date approaches, Diaz's substantial wager adds another compelling layer to a fight that already divides opinion. Whether it proves to be an inspired gamble or a costly misjudgement will be revealed when the two men finally meet in the ring.
