Shevchenko Backs Jean‑Claude Van Damme’s Challenge to Jake Paul as Boxer Eyes Canelo, Crawford
Van Damme proposed a cross‑rules bout under K‑1 versus boxing with no low kicks or elbows, accompanied by a charity pledge.
Overview
- Jean‑Claude Van Damme called out Jake Paul in an Instagram video, proposing K‑1 versus boxing rules without low kicks or elbows, allowing Paul to choose the location, and pledging part of his purse to charity.
- UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko endorsed the matchup on social media, saying Van Damme would “smoke” Paul.
- Paul has told business partner Nakisa Bidarian to begin negotiations for his next bout, with reporting tying him to high‑profile targets like Canelo Álvarez or Terence Crawford.
- EssentiallySports reports Most Valuable Promotions is working to secure those marquee boxing fights, which would make a Van Damme crossover unlikely at present.
- talkSport analyst Spencer Oliver suggested British cruiserweight Viddal Riley as a credible UK option for Paul, with a Tommy Fury rematch also raised as a possibility.