YouTuber turned boxer Jake Paul has become one of the biggest names in the sport of boxing, having recently defeated legendary heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in their fight in Texas. The bout created history for having the most concurrent viewers at 65 million—it also collected $18 million in gate revenue, breaking Canelo Alvarez‘s record in the state. 

In the meantime, a resurfaced clip of former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has started making the rounds on social media. Usyk is slated to lock horns with his heavyweight rival former WBC heavyweight champion Tyson Fury in their highly anticipated rematch on December 21st in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. 

The pair went to war in May earlier this year, which saw the Ukrainian get his hand raised after the final bell, as he was announced the victor via split decision. Regardless, as their second date in the ring inches closer, Usyk’s interview with DAZN Boxing from May, playing a ‘Word Association’ game, has reminded everyone of what ‘The Cat’ really feels about ‘El Gallo.’

Usyk was given a series of words and had to say the first thing that came to mind. When prompted with “GOAT,” he immediately connected it to the legendary Muhammad Ali. Next, when presented with “John Fury,” he identified him as “Tyson Fury’s father.” The game continued with a few more terms. 

But the most striking moment came when Usyk was asked about Jake Paul. His sharp response? “Stop boxing.” He also took a jab at Paul’s fellow influencer boxer and rival KSI. When the English YouTuber’s name was mentioned, Usyk said, “Blogger.” In the meantime, a fight between Usyk and Paul has been spoken about in the past.

Close aide reveals the only condition for Oleksandr Usyk to fight Jake Paul

The only way Oleksandr Usyk will fight Jake Paul is if the stakes align with Usyk’s plans for his post-Fury career. Sergey Lapin, Usyk’s manager, suggested that after Usyk’s rematch with Tyson Fury, the 37-year-old champion might explore unorthodox opportunities. He told Betway back in July, “Maybe it’s Jake Paul at cruiserweight, although Usyk would need to fight him with one hand behind his back though to make it fair.” 

While Usyk has dominated the heavyweight division, including wins over Fury and Anthony Joshua, Paul’s ambition is undeniable. He believes that 2025 could be the year he becomes a world champion, aiming for cruiserweight glory. Paul, confident in his ability, said, “Cruiserweight is what my body was made for… 200 pounds is definitely where I was meant to fight at.” Despite Paul’s confidence, Usyk would likely need to seriously consider the financial and promotional opportunities for such a fight.

That said, it appears former undisputed heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk is not a big fan of Jake Paul. Even though Paul’s promotional genius has brought him close to stardom in the sport, in reality, most people in the sport don’t seem to want him here. What are your thoughts on the matter?