Jake Paul embraces the role of ‘ultimate heel’ against Mike Tyson

DALLAS — Jake Paul is very conscious of his role in his upcoming fight with Mike Tyson.

Paul, 27, will step into a boxing ring in a sanctioned bout against the former world heavyweight champion and one of the most beloved sports figures of all time. If Wednesday’s press conference is any indication, it’s very clear who the fan favorite is, and it’s definitely not Paul.

And he’s okay with that.

Paul has proven to be a polarizing figure in the sport since the former YouTuber decided to try boxing just over four years ago. He has achieved box office success, amassing a 10-1 record with 7 KOs, but has also dealt with his fair share of criticism for his opponent choices, ranging from fellow YouTubers to MMA fighters. Facing a 58-year-old Tyson who hasn’t competed in a professional boxing match in nearly 20 years won’t placate the skeptics.

“I don’t care what their opinions are because I’ve seen what people cheer for,” Paul told a roomful of reporters. “I kept trying to show people that I’m a good person and look at all the good I’m doing in the world. And nobody bought it. And then one day I thought, f— that. I can took off and haven’t looked back since.”

Paul has embraced the hate and is not surprised by the amount of people hoping to see him lose to Tyson on Friday night. At the end of Wednesday’s press conference, nine of the twelve undercard fighters picked Tyson to beat Paul, and “El Gallo” challenged those picking against him to put their money where their mouth is with a friendly bet.

It’s safe to say that Paul embraces the role of Friday night villain.

“I kept trying to show people that I’m a good person and look at all the good I’m doing in the world. And nobody bought it. And then one day I thought, f— that. I can took off and haven’t looked back since.”

Jake Paul

“Yes, that’s exactly what I wanted and brought into my career,” Paul said. “I tell people I piss them off on purpose and then they still hate me and some of them don’t realize they’re in my game. It’s great and I don’t disagree with them. That’s why , it’s such a big event. It’s the ultimate hero and the ultimate heel, and it’s the perfect recipe for success.”

To further fuel the flames, Paul has promised that the fight will not go far.

“I fear no man,” said Paul. “I want him to be the old wild one, Mike. He says he’s going to kill me. I’m ready. I want that killer. I want the hardest fight possible Friday night and I want , that there are no excuses from everyone at home when I knock him out.”