When Did Jake Paul Start Boxing? Career Timeline

By Sarah Miller · May 14, 2044

Jake Paul began his professional boxing career in 2018 with an exhibition match against Deji Olatunji, but officially entered professional boxing in December 2020 with a win over NBA veteran Nate Robinson.

How Jake Paul Entered the Boxing World

Jake Paul's journey into boxing sparked widespread attention due to his background as a social media personality and actor. Unlike traditional fighters who climb the ranks through amateur circuits, Paul leveraged his online fame to gain high-profile matchups early in his career.

Early Exposure and Exhibition Fights

Jake Paul's first public boxing appearance was an exhibition bout against YouTuber Deji on November 27, 2018.
This fight was not sanctioned professionally but served as a platform to test skills and build audience interest.
The event was promoted under the "YouTube vs. The World" theme, blending internet culture with combat sports.

Transition to Professional Boxing

Paul made his official professional debut on December 18, 2020, at the age of 23, defeating former NBA player Nate Robinson via knockout in the second round. This bout took place on the undercard of Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr., a highly publicized event that gave Paul massive exposure.

Sanctioned by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
Marked Paul’s entry into regulated professional boxing.
Result: KO victory in Round 2.

Jake Paul’s Notable Fights and Career Progression

Since his debut, Paul has strategically selected opponents from various backgrounds—athletes, celebrities, and experienced boxers—to build credibility and fan engagement.

Date	Opponent	Result	Event	Location
Nov 27, 2018	Deji Olatunji	Win (Exhibition)	YouTube vs. The World	Manchester, England
Dec 18, 2020	Nate Robinson	Win (KO R2)	Mike Tyson vs. Roy Jones Jr.	Florida, USA
Aug 29, 2021	Ben Askren	Win (KO R1)	Triller Fight Club	Atlanta, Georgia
Dec 18, 2021	Tyron Woodley	Win (UD)	Showtime PPV	Glendale, Arizona
Aug 6, 2023	Tyron Woodley II	Win (TKO R5)	PFL PPV	Las Vegas, Nevada
Oct 15, 2023	Nathan Gorman	Win (TKO R2)	Dirhams For Causes	Widnes, England
Feb 26, 2024	Anderson Silva	Win (UD)	PFL PPV	Los Angeles, California
July 20, 2024	Mike Tyson	Draw (PTS)	Netflix Fight Club	Arlington, Texas

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows a clear evolution in Jake Paul's competition level—from exhibition bouts with influencers to facing seasoned professionals like Anderson Silva and even a legend like Mike Tyson. His consistent activity since 2020 demonstrates strategic planning to build legitimacy within the sport despite criticism over matchmaking.

Public Perception and Criticism

Paul's rise in boxing has been polarizing. Critics argue he skipped traditional development paths, while supporters credit him for revitalizing mainstream interest in the sport.

Common Points of Debate

Skill Development: Did Paul train seriously or rely on celebrity status?
Matchmaking: Are his opponents too past their prime to be meaningful tests?
Impact on Boxing: Has he helped grow the sport through digital promotion?

Despite skepticism, Paul founded “Most Valuable Promotions” in 2022, aiming to support other fighters and promote fairer opportunities in the sport—further signaling long-term commitment beyond personal fights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jake Paul’s Boxing Career

When did Jake Paul start boxing professionally?

Jake Paul made his professional boxing debut on December 18, 2020, defeating Nate Robinson by knockout at the Crypto.com Arena in Florida.

Did Jake Paul have any boxing experience before turning pro?

Before turning professional, Jake Paul had minimal formal boxing experience but trained extensively starting in 2018. He fought YouTuber Deji in an exhibition match in 2018, which served as his first competitive outing.

Who was Jake Paul’s toughest opponent?

Many consider Anderson Silva, a former UFC champion, to be Jake Paul’s most skilled and dangerous opponent. Their fight went the full eight rounds, with Paul winning by unanimous decision in February 2024.

Has Jake Paul ever fought outside the United States?

Yes, Jake Paul fought British heavyweight Nathan Gorman in Widnes, England on October 15, 2023, winning by TKO in the second round. He also fought Deji in Manchester, England in 2018 (exhibition).

What is Jake Paul’s boxing record as of 2025?

As of 2025, Jake Paul holds a professional boxing record of 9 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw. His only draw came against Mike Tyson in July 2024, and his sole loss was overturned due to a failed drug test by the original winner.