Jake Paul Broken Jaw Update: Next Fight Late 2026 After Trump interview

Jake Paul conducted a casual sit-down interview with President Donald Trump, posted on March 11, 2026, on Paul's X account (recorded backstage at a Trump rally in Hebron, Kentucky). The conversation focused heavily on fighting, with Paul asking Trump who he would like to see him fight next.


Trump's Suggested Opponent

Trump replied, "Well, probably Khabib" — referring to retired UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov (29-0 record, last fought in 2020). Paul laughed and responded, "I’m down," expressing interest despite the unlikelihood of the matchup (Nurmagomedov, now 37, has shown no interest in returning).


Paul's Potential Opponents

Paul expressed openness to MMA and listed more realistic future opponents: 


Oleksandr Usyk (unified heavyweight boxing champion)  

Francis Ngannou (former UFC heavyweight champion)  

Ryan Garcia (WBC welterweight boxing champion)  

Tommy Fury (who defeated Paul in 2023)

Paul confirmed he plans to return to cruiserweight or explore MMA after his next fight.


Injury and Return Timeline

Paul suffered a broken jaw in his December 2025 knockout loss to Anthony Joshua. He underwent a second surgery recently due to insufficient rest during initial recovery. Medical experts indicate 4–6 months before he can spar, pushing his next fight to late 2026 or early 2027.Trump's Comments on the Joshua Fight

Trump watched the Paul vs. Joshua bout on Air Force One (with a "whole plane full" of people) and praised Paul's bravery, calling him "very brave" and noting Joshua is a "legitimate fighter." Trump joked about Paul's chin/jaw being the only damage. Paul agreed the jaw is healing.


Other Highlights from the Interview 

Trump shared a story about breaking up a near-fight involving Kobe Bryant years ago.  

Paul repeatedly used informal language ("Thank you, man," "Yeah, man") despite starting with "Mr. President."  

Trump predicted Paul will run for office "in the not-too-distant future" and offered his "complete and total endorsement."

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