The combat sports world is abuzz with anticipation as the highly-anticipated showdown between social media sensation-turned boxer, Jake Paul, and former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) standout — and current Bareknuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) superstar — Mike Perry, goes down tonight (Sat., July 20, 2024) from inside Amalie Arena in Tampa, Fla., streaming live on DAZN pay-per-view (PPV).
This clash of styles (and personalities) promises to be a spectacle, but a bit more toned down when compared to Paul’s ill-fated, Netflix-streamed showdown with 58-year-old former unified Heavyweight boxing champion, Mike Tyson, which was postponed until November for health-related issues (details here).
In other words, Paul still isn’t fighting a real boxer, just a madman who is really good at re-arranging faces with just his knuckles. It’s a typical “Boxer vs. Brawler” short-notice showdown ... and we’re here for all of it.
Let’s breakdown the key factors in this intriguing matchup:
On paper, the physical characteristics of these two fighters offer an interesting contrast:
Jake Paul
Age: 27
Height: 6’1”
Reach: 76”
Weight: Cruiserweight
Boxing Record: 9-1, 6 KOs
Stance: Orthodox
Mike Perry
Age: 32
Height: 5’10”
Reach: 71”
Weight: Middleweight
Boxing Record: 0-1
Stance: Orthodox
Paul holds a clear advantage in height and reach, which could be pivotal factors in the fight. However, Perry — despite being shorter — is super aggressive, willing to eat punches just to get inside and dirty box. That forward-pressing style could negate some of Paul’s reach advantage. The weight difference is also noteworthy, with Paul competing at cruiserweight (200 pounds) and Perry coming in at middleweight (185 pounds). This could potentially affect the dynamics of the fight, particularly in terms of power and endurance.
The contrasting styles of Paul and Perry are what makes this matchup so intriguing ...
Paul has shown a surprising level of boxing skill for a relative newcomer to the sport. He is a very hard worker, a somewhat calculated boxer who relies on his jab, footwork and power. His boxing IQ has improved significantly since his early fights, demonstrating a willingness to engage in exchanges. However, he has also been criticized for facing relatively inexperienced opponents. And that really hasn’t changed here — Perry is not a boxer.
Perry is a classic brawler with relentless aggression. He is known for his powerful punches, insane durability and fearless mentality. His mixed martial arts (MMA) background has given him a well-rounded skill set, including grappling and clinch fighting. However, he has also been criticized for his defensive shortcomings and tendency to engage in reckless exchanges. He lacks head movement, willing to use his own face as a punching bag just to land some shots of his own as previously mentioned.
Paul vs. Perry pic.twitter.com/Whl7aGfjqB
— MMA Mania (@mmamania) July 18, 2024
On paper, Paul would seem to have the advantage in terms of size, reach and boxing skill. However, Perry’s raw power, aggression and craziness makes him a dangerous opponent. Paul needs to utilize his jab to control the distance and avoid being drawn into a brawl, dictate the pace of the fight and potentially find opportunities for power shots.
On the other hand, Perry will more than likely attempt to close the distance and land heavy punches to overwhelm Paul and force a stoppage. The key for Perry will be to avoid getting caught by Paul’s counter punches and to maintain a high pace throughout the fight.
Both fighters obviously have the potential to win, and the outcome will depend on which fighter is able to impose their will on the other. One thing is certain: fight fans are in for a thrilling contest when these two warriors step into the ring.
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