Oleksandr Usyk's boxing prowess might not be enough in a potential MMA fight against Jake Paul, according to an analysis by GPT-4. The world heavyweight champion with multiple belts (WBC, WBA, WBO, IBO, and IBF) could face serious challenges against the YouTuber-turned-boxer if they meet in the cage - and apparently, this matchup might actually happen.
"Negotiations for the future fight have already begun," – revealed Usyk's trainer Sergiy Lapin recently.
The AI breakdown highlights Usyk's strengths in a boxing context - exceptional endurance, footwork, distance control, and mental toughness proven in hostile environments like his victory over Joshua in London. However, these might not translate well to MMA competition.
The Ukrainian's main weaknesses in mixed martial arts would be his complete lack of grappling experience and the challenge of adapting to an entirely different sport at his age. Meanwhile, Jake Paul (11-1, 7 KO) brings MMA training experience, significant punching power, and physical advantages that could prove decisive in a cage fight.
Interestingly, Paul's weaknesses - limited opposition quality and tactical immaturity in longer bouts - might not come into play if he can quickly force the fight to the ground. The boxing phenom would have "zero chance" against Usyk in a boxing match, but MMA changes everything.
The final prediction? Paul would likely win by submission in the first or second round if fighting under full MMA rules. Usyk could gain the advantage if the fight stays standing for more than two rounds, but would struggle immediately if Paul manages to initiate grappling exchanges.
Can the heavyweight boxing champion adapt quickly enough to MMA's ground game to have a fighting chance? The sports world would certainly tune in to find out.
