Jake Paul says boxing champ Canelo Álvarez ‘ducked’ him after ‘deep negotiations’ for fight

Boxing enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting tougher competition for Jake Paul in the ring, and it seemed like he was on the verge of facing off against a formidable opponent. However, it appears that the anticipated showdown with current WBO, WBA, and WBC super middleweight champion Canelo Álvarez fell through after the reigning champ allegedly “ducked” Paul.

According to reports, Álvarez and his team were in deep negotiations with Paul, with Eddie Hearn, Álvarez’s former promoter, even confirming that a deal had been reached for the fight. However, the bout was abruptly called off, leaving fans disappointed.

Instead of facing Paul, Álvarez has signed a four-fight deal with Riyadh Season to compete in Saudi Arabia. This decision came as a surprise to many, especially considering the buzz surrounding a potential clash between Álvarez and Paul.

In a statement released by Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, the disappointment over the failed fight was palpable. The statement emphasized the values of integrity, transparency, and respect for the sport, its athletes, and the fans, hinting at a sense of betrayal in the boxing world.

Paul himself took to social media to express his frustration, claiming that Álvarez had “ducked” him and insinuating that the reigning champ had prioritized financial gain over the pride of the Mexican people who support him in the U.S. Paul asserted his position as the new face of boxing and teased a potential event in New York.

Despite the setback, Álvarez is moving forward with his fight schedule, with an opponent yet to be determined for a weekend event in July. He is also slated to face Terence Crawford on September 13 in a title bout.

Paul, who boasts an impressive 11-1 record, notably defeated Mike Tyson in November, further solidifying his position in the boxing world. As the saga between Paul and Álvarez continues, fans are left eagerly anticipating what the future holds for both fighters.

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