Paul, known for his dual role as a boxer and influencer, painted Ngannou as not taking the sport seriously. He had harsh words following Ngannou's rejection of the potential fight. Jake remarked about Ngannou's disrespect towards Tyson by saying, “He's basically also talking trash about Mike Tyson for fighting me.” As Paul pushed for the French-Cameroonian to accept his challenge, his portrayal of Ngannou as “just an idiot” added fuel to the ongoing feud.
In response, Francis Ngannou, a former UFC Champion, fired back by dismissing Paul's challenge. For him, Paul represents entertainment rather than true combat. The essence of his refusal centered around this perception. Ngannou even sarcastically suggested a scenario where they battle in an arena like two poor brothers. He urged Paul to show more respect: “Come on, respect me a little bit.”
The shadow of Mike Tyson loomed over their exchange. Back in November 2024, Tyson squared off against Jake Paul and ended up losing by unanimous decision in a major Netflix event that bagged $40 million for the winner and $20 million for Tyson himself.
As December 8 edges closer, fans eagerly await another showdown when Jake Paul takes on https://www.netflix.com">Anthony Joshua in what promises to be another spectacle amplified by their previous heat-ups.