‘Hungrier than ever’ – Jake Paul announces Christmas eve comeback in Dubai

Jake Paul will return to the ring for the first time since losing to Anthony Joshua, headlining a card in Dubai on 24 December against an opponent yet to be confirmed, the BBC reported.

The American had two titanium plates fitted and some teeth removed after Joshua broke his jaw in their heavyweight bout in December 2025. Paul was knocked down twice before being stopped in the sixth round in Miami. The 29-year-old said in May that his boxing career was “most definitely” in doubt.

“I’ve spent years proving people wrong, taking risks, and pushing myself against opponents nobody thought I’d face,” Paul said. “Nothing that’s happened has changed my belief in myself or what I’m working toward. I’m hungrier than ever.”

“We’ve got plenty of names on the list; let’s see who signs the contract. Merry Christmas, Dubai. Santa Paul is coming to town, and somebody’s getting knocked out.”

Nakisa Bidarian, who co-founded Most Valuable Promotions with Paul, told the Sun that former UFC fighter Darren Till is among those being considered. “We’re finalizing an opponent worthy of Jake’s return and look forward to sharing more in the coming weeks,” Bidarian said.

Till, 33, beat Luke Rockhold in his sole professional boxing bout in 2025 and defeated Yoel Romero in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship in September.

Paul has won 12 of 14 professional fights, losing to Tommy Fury and Joshua.