Jake Paul and Anderson Silva are working to create a fighters’ association for MMA to help unionize fighters for better pay and health insurance, a project Paul describes as difficult, time-consuming and a three to four-year endeavor.
Jake Paul, who gained prominence from his amateur boxing feats, is finding his ambitious plan of establishing a fighters’ association for MMA, a little more challenging than he anticipated. After his triumph over Anderson Silva, a revered figure in MMA, in their boxing matchup in October, the two agreed to collaborate on this project with the intention of improving the conditions for fighters. The vision includes a system where fighters have the ability to negotiate for better pay and health insurance. Silva confirmed that groundwork for their plan had already started, but according to Paul, much more work remains.
In a discussion with MMA Mania, Paul acknowledged the complexity of the task, stating, “We’ve been working nonstop on it behind the scenes and making slow progress every single day.” He reflected on the uphill task in hand, pointing out the incredible effort and financial resources being invested into the project. Despite these challenges, he remained committed and progressive. Their efforts are neither new nor unique, as several renowned fighters including Georges St. Pierre, Donald Cerrone, Cain Velasquez, T.J. Dillashaw, and Tim Kennedy had previously attempted to create a Mixed Martial Arts Athletes Association in 2016. However, this association didn’t last. Taking inspiration from these past efforts, Paul recognizes that forging such an association is a long-term commitment rather than an immediate achievement.
The process, according to Paul’s estimate, could span three to four years. He maintains his optimism and insistence that this initiative could dramatically improve the world of combat sports, stating, “Hopefully, that’s something we can fix in the next couple of years.” Despite these endeavors, Paul’s boxing career continues and he will face Nate Diaz in a 10-round match in August at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. In anticipation of Diaz’s cross over, Paul expressed excitement and compared him favorably to the likes of Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley. Judging by Diaz’s performance, there might be the slightest possibility of him joining Paul’s mission.