Jake Paul is set to return to boxing on December 24 in Dubai, where he will face former Bellator contender Cedric Doumbé. Doumbé, 34, has not competed in over two years, with his last fight being a first-round knockout victory against Jaleel Willis in May 2024.
While Doumbé typically fights around the welterweight division, this bout will be contested at cruiserweight, with a maximum limit of 200 pounds, according to a press release from Most Valuable Promotions.
Rumors had suggested a potential matchup between Paul and former UFC fighter Darren Till, but those discussions have reportedly concluded.
Doumbé, a former kickboxing world champion for Glory, holds a professional kickboxing record of 75 wins, 7 losses, and 1 draw. He is known for his cardio and athleticism, though his professional boxing experience is limited to a single fight in 2015.
The fight is scheduled to take place at the Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai. Most Valuable Promotions is still seeking a streaming partner for the event, with reports indicating it will not be streamed on Netflix. The most likely scenario is a pay-per-view broadcast on DAZN.
This fight marks Paul's return to the ring approximately one year after his loss to Anthony Joshua, who defeated him by TKO. Paul suffered a broken jaw during that bout.