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From Awkward Yoga to MMA Techniques: Jake Paul vs Ben Askren Open Workout Recap

Published 04/15/2021, 2:00 PM EDT

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The Jake Paul and Ben Askren fight is finally upon us. After serious criticism and questioning, the two will headline an event that will feature music performances and a celebrity commentary team, along with an exciting undercard.

Both Jake Paul and Ben Askren will go into the bout to answer critics. ‘Funky’ will have to prove his worth with his striking, while ‘The Problem Child’ will have to show that he can beat a real fighter. So, let’s look at the open workout and see what each fighter did.

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Ben Askren training MMA techniques for Jake Paul fight

Askren has always been a wrestler. Throughout his MMA career, he relied heavily on his grappling to become a world champion. However, Askren seems to have taken his boxing training seriously with an experienced team.

The open workout showed how much the former MMA champion has improved. His balance, stability, and form look like that of a boxer and his speed and striking seem to have improved. Although, fans can only judge his power on the night.

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However, the former MMA champion could not resist training some MMA moves during the open workout. He teased a double-leg takedown, a trip, and even a knee to the head. All while joking about whether or not it was legal. Despite this, ‘Funky’ looked comfortable after 15 minutes of continuous work.

Jake Paul doing Yoga at the open workout

Paul took a unique approach to the open workout. Rather than training on the pads, the 2-0 boxer started with some awkward Yoga where his trainer held him up by the legs while ‘The Problem Child’ got loose.

However, the American YouTuber turned boxer gave an explanation when he said, “Flexibility equals speed.” And his trainer then added, “Speed equals death.” 

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This explained why ‘The Problem Child’ chose Yoga rather than a pad workout.

Paul then did some skipping and shadow boxing. And given that it is fight week, it is expected that fighters do not undertake rigorous training.

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What did you make of Ben Askren and Jake Paul during their open workout? 

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Written by:

Leonardo Carvalho

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Leonardo Carvalho is a Boxing Writer for EssentiallySports. Before working as a boxing web journalist, Leonardo dabbled in roles ranging from an SEO specialist to a Chegg expert. Alongside his current role, Leonardo runs a YouTube channel where he combines his passion for fitness with sports.
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