Boxing Fans Disappointed as Jake Paul’s MSG Bout Canceled
Boxing enthusiasts were left in dismay as Jake Paul’s highly anticipated fight at Madison Square Garden next week was officially canceled. The decision came after the YouTuber-turned-boxer’s promotional team, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), accused opponent Hasim Rahman Jr. of failing to honor the contracted weight limit.
In a statement released on Saturday, MVP revealed that Rahman had signed a contract on July 5th, agreeing to a maximum weight of 200 pounds. However, a weight check on Friday showed the boxer had only lost one pound since initially weighing in at 216 pounds. The New York State Athletic Commission subsequently stated it would not sanction the bout unless Rahman competed at a minimum of 205 pounds.
“MVP and Jake Paul will not reward someone that has conducted themselves in such a deceiving and calculated manner,” the statement read, condemning Rahman’s alleged lack of professionalism.
Although Paul was willing to move forward with the fight at the higher weight, MVP claimed Rahman’s team informed them on Saturday that they would withdraw unless the limit was set at 215 pounds. Consequently, the entire August 6th card, which was also set to feature women’s boxing star Amanda Serrano defending her featherweight title, was canceled.
The cancelation marks a significant disappointment for boxing fans eagerly anticipating the high-profile matchup at the iconic Madison Square Garden venue.
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