Eddie Hearn has defended Jake Paul following the breakdown of his potential fight with Canelo Alvarez, even likening himself to the YouTube personality.
Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer, and boxing champion Canelo were reportedly close to announcing a surprising bout for May 3 in Las Vegas.
However, Canelo ultimately cancelled the fight to sign a lucrative four-fight agreement with Saudi boxing organizer Turki Alalshikh.
Paul stated that powerful figures did everything possible to prevent the high-profile fight, disapproving of him facing boxing’s elite.
Hearn actually agrees with Paul’s view and sees some similarities between himself and the outspoken internet star.
He told SunSport, “I believe Jake Paul was genuinely prepared to fight Canelo Alvarez.”
“I understand the criticism that he was attempting to secure a significant fight without prior experience against top-level boxers.”
“I believe that anyone with influence and a strong voice will face attempts to be blocked or disrupted. I experience it myself.”
“So, undoubtedly, there will be many who try to hinder Jake Paul’s progress, but he is a highly determined and intelligent young man. I am confident he will overcome these obstacles.”
Paul, 28, and Canelo, 34, were on the verge of confirming a cruiserweight match to be broadcast on Netflix.
But Saudi advisor Alalshikh intervened to offer Canelo a fight on May 4 in Riyadh, prior to his anticipated super-fight with Terence Crawford, 37, in September.
Paul is now expected to focus on finding a new opponent, with an announcement anticipated soon, according to SunSport.
Meanwhile, Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions and Hearn have finalized a deal for Katie Taylor’s trilogy fight with Amanda Serrano on July 11.
Taylor, 38, has controversially won two decisions against Serrano, 36, at Madison Square Garden in New York in 2022 and in Texas last November.
They will now renew their rivalry for a third time at MSG, broadcast live on Netflix as part of an all-women’s boxing event.
Hearn commented, “I recognized the magnitude of the second fight, as well as the first, and the platform it provided.”
“Amanda and Katie could compete 100 times, and each fight would be a contender for Fight of the Year.”
“Therefore, we were pleased to reach an agreement with MVP and are excited for the trilogy.”
