CLEVELAND, OHIO: After making a great Professional Fighters League (PFL) debut on November 25, 2023, Derek Brunson, a former UFC star, is now focusing on Jake Paul. The seasoned middleweight left the top mixed martial arts organization earlier this year, having been there for nearly 11 years.
After defeating Ray Cooper III by unanimous decision to begin his PFL career, Brunson will now receive a larger salary the following time around.
Derek Brunson calls out Jake Paul
In his postfight interview, the 39-year-old called out Jake Paul and said, "I came here to ball. Where the hell is Jake Paul? Hey, I came for the big fights. I want to put PFL on the map. They showed faith in me, brought me over here, signed me. I want to put on a hell of a show for the fans."
Jake Paul has become the face of celebrity boxing, but 'The Problem Child' took things a step further this year when he signed with the PFL.
Although the 26-year-old has challenged MMA legends like Nate Diaz to a fight at PFL, it appears like Paul won't enter the smart cage until the fourth quarter of 2024, according to recent sources.
The popular YouTuber has a 7-1 record in professional boxing and has defeated notable figures in mixed martial arts such as Tyron Woodley, Nate Diaz, and Anderson Silva. He hasn't, however, entered the octagon on a professional basis.
Internet reacts to Derek Brunson calling out Jake Paul
Many people shared their views on Derek Brunson challenging Jake Paul. A user commented, "Brunson death gassing VS Jake would be a PPV for the ages," while one said, "This…doesn’t make me think PFL is legit."
Another user commented, "Jake Paul getting dry humped into a RNC by Derek Brunson is exactly what he deserves. Not some spectacle. I only wish it were in the UFC so they could do it in an empty Apex with Angela Hill main event."
A user also added, "I came for the big fights… yeah sure. UFC is where the big fights are, they all came here for the $. It is prize fighting after all."
A person also commented, "I saw people shitting on this call out but tbf like the rest of us he probably couldn't name anyone else on the roster" while one said, "Any Female 135er would wreck Jake Paul.. relax Derek."