Like Jake Paul, could we possibly see Dwight Howard stepping into the ring with Manny Pacquiao as trainer? Howard, a former NBA champion and 8-time All-Star, visited the Philippines after signing with Strong Group, for the 33rd Dubai International Basketball Championships. The impromptu encounter between the two sports legends, Howard and Pacquiao, has sparked considerable interest.

In a lighthearted and widely circulated social media moment, the NBA star playfully proposed the idea that the Filipino boxing legend could serve as his trainer for a hypothetical bout against Paul. This amusing exchange occurred during Howard’s visit to Pacquiao’s residence in Makati City, Philippines, as part of the World Smiles tour. Here, he was accompanied by members of his Strong Group basketball team. But how did a meeting with Pacquiao instigate an invitation from Howard for Jake Paul to meet him in the ring?

Dwight Howard is making smiles happen globally

In an Instagram carousel post captioned, “Above The Rim! Beyond the boxing ring Right here in the Philippines Pushing positivity & world peace. Making Smiles happen globally. This is what it’s about!There is no better feeling than coming together to talk about making things better for people all around the world. Superman X Pac-Man shoutout to the Filipino Legend,” that Howard shared, the two could be seen sharing jokes and laughing their hearts out. Howard was overjoyed to receive a Manny Pacquiao figure and a pair of shoes autographed by the boxer himself.

In the fourth slide, an excited Howard called out Jake Paul, “Me and Manny Pacquiao, Jake Paul, I’m coming for you baby, I’m coming, Let’s go!” and burst into laughter again. The next slide had a sparring video of Howard titled “Dwight Howard vs Jake Paul next.” While Howard might be joking about fighting Paul, the boxer does have a bout already in the pipeline for this March.

Jake Paul to fight in Amanda Serrano’s undercard

On March 2nd, Jake Paul is set to enter his tenth professional fight against an undisclosed opponent. The event will take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico. An estimated audience of around 20,000 might attend the event. Accompanying Paul in the main event is Amanda Serrano, the undisputed featherweight champion, who will be facing German fighter Nina Meinke in the headline bout.

Read More: Jake Paul’s Rumored MMA Debut in 2024 May Open New Doors for Influencers in Combat Sports

Following his victory over Andre August, Paul expressed interest in a potential bout against Viddal Riley, the current British cruiserweight titleholder. Paul is eager to secure a championship match and possibly a title. Riley also expressed a desire to fight Paul. However, he indicated that the match may not happen anytime soon, ruling out the possibility even in 2024. It remains to be seen whether Jake Paul will accept the call-out from Howard for his March bout since no opponent has yet been set.

Will Paul accept the offer from Dwight Howard? Would a Howard vs Paul fight be something you would be willing to watch if it ever actually happens? Let us know in the comments below.

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