YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul announced Tuesday on X that he is partnering with USA Boxing as they prepare for the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
The Ohio native will be working closely with Team USA boxers and the renowned coach, Billy Walsh. The partnership aims to boost global interest in boxing while promoting the 2024 Paris Olympics.
The internet sensation said he felt honored to be involved in the historic partnership. This is the first time Team USA has joined forces with a professional athlete and influencer in such a capacity.
"I'm honored to partner with USA Boxing as the 2024 Paris Olympics approach. I'll be training with the Olympic squad in Colorado Springs this winter and accompanying them to Paris this July to amplify our country's best amateur boxers," Paul said.
"The Olympics are the greatest stage in the world, and I'm honored to help bring awareness to USA Boxing and mentor these young, inspiring athletes as they fight for gold. Anyone who works hard enough to receive the honor to represent Team USA at the Olympics deserves a platform."
Paul will also be present at Team USA's matches in Paris to offer fans a unique behind-the-scenes experience. Through his events and marketing company, Most Valuable Promotions, he plans to provide exclusive insights into the athletes' training and competition experiences.
"My commitment to boxing is much more than my in ring accomplishments," said Paul. “I am determined to make my impact outside the ring bigger than anything I do within it. I believe the United States has the best boxers. Let's put it to the test.”
'Vital resource' for Team USA
USA Boxing executive director Mike McAtee expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, saying that Paul will serve as a "vital resource" for Team USA.
McAtee believes that Paul's involvement will bring attention to the team, the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics and boxing as a sport.
"USA Boxing athletes pour everything they have into our sport, and very few of them get the chance to compete for their countries," he said.
"We want to make sure our athletes are recognized for this rare and outstanding accomplishment and are able to carry some of that well-deserved brand value with them to the next phases of their personal journeys."
According to McAtee, Paul's influence among the youth makes him an ideal collaborator for USA Boxing. The awareness he brings to the sport is unmatched, and the organization is thrilled to welcome him and his audience to Team USA.
Jake Paul's Career
Paul's journey to fame began in 2013 on the online video-sharing platforms Vine and YouTube. He also gained recognition as a Disney star in 2017, although his association with the company was short-lived. Following his departure from Disney, Paul delved into music before eventually into sports.
The 26-year-old entered the ring in 2018. With a current record of 8-1, he has secured victories over retired MMA fighters Tyron Woodley, Nate Diaz, Anderson Silva and most recently Andre August, whom he defeated via a first-round knockout. His sole defeat came at the hands of Tommy Fury in February.
Despite signing an MMA contract with the Professional Fighters (PFL) League in January, Paul has yet to make his first appearance in the mixed martial arts arena.
