Jake Paul is preparing to return to the boxing ring nearly a year after suffering a devastating knockout loss that left him facing a lengthy recovery. The YouTuber-turned-boxer has now confirmed when and where his next appearance will take place, although one major detail remains unresolved.
Paul will headline a Most Valuable Promotions event in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on December 24, 2026. The announcement confirms his return date and location, but his opponent, the venue, and the broadcast or streaming partner have yet to be revealed.
The 29-year-old has not competed since his December 2025 showdown with former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. That fight ended in the sixth round, with Joshua scoring a knockout victory and leaving Paul with fractures to his jaw that required multiple surgical procedures.
Paul has since undergone further treatment to address complications involving the screws and plates used to repair the injury.
Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua FULL Highlights | Netflix
Jake Paul Teases Opponent For Dubai Return
“The Problem Child” has made it clear that he intends to resume his boxing career with the same confidence that has defined his time in the sport. In a statement announcing the event, he emphasized that his previous defeat has not changed his ambitions.
“Nothing that’s happened has changed my belief in myself or what I’m working toward,” Paul said. “I’m hungrier than ever, and on Thursday, December 24, I’m returning to the ring in Dubai to start the next chapter of my journey.”
He also expressed enthusiasm about staging his comeback in the United Arab Emirates, describing Dubai as a city that embraces ambitious projects and challenges conventional limits.
“The Problem Child” added that his team has several potential opponents under consideration, but stopped short of identifying anyone who could face him. He closed his announcement with a Christmas-themed promise that someone would be knocked out.
MVP co-founder and CEO Nakisa Bidarian confirmed that the promotion is working to secure an opponent suitable for Paul’s return. Further information is expected to emerge in the coming weeks.
Paul enters his comeback with a 12-2 professional boxing record, including seven knockout victories. His résumé includes victories over former UFC stars Nate Diaz, Tyron Woodley, Ben Askren, and Anderson Silva, alongside his high-profile bout against Mike Tyson.
