Featured Image Credit: Showtime Boxing
Topics: Jake Paul, Boxing, Anderson Silva, UFC
Josh Lawless
Jake Paul knocked Anderson Silva down in the eighth and final round of his unanimous decision victory at the Desert Diamond, Arena in Glendale, Arizona.
The Problem Child moved to 6-0 in his professional boxing career after defeating the UFC legend in what was his toughest test to date.
Silva, despite now being 47, proved to be no pushover and caused problems for Paul with his movement and combinations.
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The 25-year-old remained patient though and stuck to his game-plan implemented by coach BJ Flores. He was looking for that big right hand throughout the whole contest and Paul saved his signature shot for the last round.
The gap opened up after the clinch and for the second time in his boxing career, Silva was dropped to the canvas after being caught flush in the face by Paul.
After all three judges declared him the victor, Paul remains unbeaten and now moves a step closer to his goal of fighting for a world title in the sport he took up two years ago.
Paul and Silva were respectful in all departments and made a special bet beforehand. If he lost, the Spider agreed to start a united fighters association with Paul with the aim of helping improving pay and healthcare for those competing in UFC.
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Paying tribute to his opponent afterwards on Showtime Boxing's coverage, Paul said: "It’s a surreal moment. Hard work pays off. I want to thank Anderson Silva; he was my hero growing up.”
"He took so many hard shots over the fight. He’s a dog.”
Paul has now beaten three of Dana White's former UFC fighters, with Silva joining previous victims Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley.
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Silva put on a fine performance but had no issue with the overall scoring.
"That’s the game – some you win, some you lose," he told Ariel Helwani.
"I think they got it right, the judges. It’s tough to come in here and fight a young kid. Jake was better than me today. I think everybody needs to respect this kid.”