The highly anticipated grudge match between KSI and Jake Paul has taken a surprising turn as promoter Kalle Sauerland has been brought in to rejuvenate negotiations.
The two YouTubers-turned-boxers have been feuding for over five years, creating significant demand for a showdown that could generate substantial earnings.
However, tensions between Jake Paul’s business partner, Nakisa Bidarian, and KSI’s manager have reached a breaking point, complicating the negotiation process. To manage the delicate situation, Sauerland, who partners with KSI’s Misfits Boxing, has been tasked with overseeing the discussions.
Sauerland brings nearly three decades of experience in top-tier boxing promotion, having facilitated major fights, including a deal for KSI to fight Tommy Fury last year. In an interview with SunSport, he shared his extensive background: “I’ve done 24 years of boxing and put on unification fights, heavyweight world championships with multiple belts. So I’ve sort of seen that on the traditional side; it’s no different on the other side.”
He emphasized the complexities involved in organizing major fights, including managing weights, purses, egos, locker room choices, and the order of announcements. Sauerland stated, “Those things are all part of putting a big fight together. So he hasn’t thrown me under the bus. I’m always ready to go.”
Despite not yet initiating formal talks with Bidarian, Sauerland expressed confidence in his ability to navigate the situation. He highlighted his brother Nisse’s previous collaboration with Paul’s advisor as a potential bridge to facilitate negotiations. This connection offers a glimmer of hope for reaching an agreement.
KSI’s team has estimated that a bout with Jake Paul could generate up to £100 million. Sauerland agreed, stating, “And the rest! It’s a massive fight.” He compared the potential numbers to those of the legendary Mayweather-Pacquiao fight, emphasizing the significant financial impact such a match could have in the realm of crossover boxing.
As of now, KSI, 31, has not fought since his first professional defeat to Tommy Fury, 25, last October. KSI was scheduled to return to the ring on August 31 in a two-on-one match against Slim Albaher and Anthony Taylor but had to withdraw due to a hand injury.
Meanwhile, Jake Paul, 27, is set to return to the ring on November 15 in a controversial match against 58-year-old boxing legend Mike Tyson. The bout has faced criticism due to the significant age difference between the fighters, adding another layer of intrigue to Paul’s boxing career.
As negotiations continue to unfold, the boxing world eagerly awaits news on whether KSI and Jake Paul will finally face off in what could be one of the most lucrative and talked-about matches in recent memory.
