Jake Paul Earns Praise From UFC Champion Francis Ngannou

Jake Paul has come under fire from many in the MMA world.

However, reigning UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou offered some praise for his recent performance.

Paul scored a finish of former UFC welterweight titleholder Tyron Woodley. It marked his second win this year over Woodley.

“Honestly, I was impressed by Jake Paul,” Ngannou told TMZ. “I didn’t see that coming. I was sure that Tyron was gonna win this fight.

“But you’ve got to give it to Jake, he made a statement, a huge statement. He proved that his money is where his mouth is. He’s there, he’s taking himself very seriously.”

Ngannou will take on Ciryl Gane in January at UFC 270 to unify the titles. Gane is the current interim champion.

Pressed about a potential match with Paul in the future, Ngannou quickly shot it down. He has mentioned boxing reigning heavyweight champion Tyson Fury.

“No, this is not the same thing,” he said. “It’s not the same generation. Even if I go out there for boxing, it’s not to box Jake Paul.

“As good as he might be, he’s not on my level. He’s not in my weight class first of all. I might have maybe 80, 100 pounds over him. It’s not the same thing. He doesn’t want this smoke.”