Jake Paul is officially returning to professional boxing, and the American has chosen Christmas Eve for his highly anticipated comeback. Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) announced on October 29 that Paul will headline a major boxing event in Dubai on December 24, 2026, marking his first appearance inside the ring since suffering a devastating knockout defeat against Anthony Joshua.

The announcement ends months of speculation surrounding the future of the 29-year-old boxer, who underwent multiple surgeries after fracturing his jaw during his heavyweight showdown with Joshua in December 2025. While the comeback date and location are confirmed, Paul’s next opponent remains undecided.

Former UFC fighter Darren Till has emerged as one of the names under consideration, with MVP reportedly narrowing its search to three or four potential opponents. The matchup could provide an intriguing test for Paul as he looks to restart his boxing career following a difficult year away from competition.

Jake Paul targets December 24 for his boxing return in Dubai

Paul’s last professional appearance ended in disappointment when he faced former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua on December 19, 2025, in Miami.

Joshua stopped the American in the sixth round, delivering a knockout defeat that left Paul with fractures in two places in his jaw. The injury required multiple surgical procedures, including operations in December and February, forcing him to spend an extended period away from the sport.

The defeat was particularly significant because Paul had entered the contest following a six-fight winning streak. His run included victories over several experienced combat sports names, including former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, whom he defeated in November 2024.

Despite the setback, Paul has made it clear that he has no intention of abandoning professional boxing.

Following MVP’s announcement, the American expressed his determination to return and continue challenging himself against opponents who once seemed unlikely possibilities.

“I’ve spent years proving people wrong, taking risks, and pushing myself against opponents nobody thought I’d face. Nothing that’s happened has changed my belief in myself or what I’m working toward. I’m hungrier than ever,” Paul said.

He also sent a message to potential opponents, making it clear that several names are being discussed behind the scenes.

“We’ve got plenty of names on the list; let’s see who signs the contract,” he added.

Paul currently holds a professional boxing record of 12 wins and two losses, with seven victories coming by knockout. His defeats have come against Tommy Fury and Anthony Joshua.

The Dubai event will also mark his first professional boxing appearance in the United Arab Emirates, adding another international destination to his growing list of high-profile events.

Darren Till among potential opponents for Jake Paul’s comeback fight

While the December 24 date is confirmed, the biggest question surrounding Jake Paul’s Dubai boxing comeback is the identity of his opponent.

Darren Till is one of the leading names reportedly being discussed by MVP. The former UFC welterweight title challenger has been linked with a potential showdown against Paul for several months.

MVP co-founder and CEO Nakisa Bidarian confirmed that the promotion has narrowed its options to three or four fighters as it attempts to finalize the matchup.

Till’s name is particularly interesting because of his background in mixed martial arts and previous experience in boxing. The British fighter has also competed in crossover combat sports events, making him a recognizable name among audiences who follow both boxing and MMA.

The possibility of facing Paul has previously generated a strong reaction from Till. When Bidarian described him as an “interesting fight” during an earlier interaction, the British fighter publicly rejected the description and challenged Paul’s team to arrange the contest.

Till later renewed his challenge when reports emerged that MVP was discussing potential opponents for the December comeback event.

“Stop fking about & grow a set of bas & send the contract & I’ll smash your boy’s head in,” Till wrote in a social media post.

However, despite the public exchanges, no official agreement has been announced. Till remains a candidate rather than Paul’s confirmed opponent.

For MVP, the challenge will be finding a fighter who offers a competitive contest while also attracting considerable attention from boxing fans and the wider sports audience.

What comes next for Jake Paul after his Anthony Joshua defeat?

Paul’s return represents an important moment in his boxing journey. His fight against Joshua was a significant step up in opposition, as he moved into the heavyweight division to face an established former world champion.

Although the contest ended badly, the experience demonstrated the physical demands of competing against elite heavyweight boxers.

A comeback against Till or another experienced opponent would allow Paul to return to a more manageable competitive environment while rebuilding momentum.

Over the years, Paul has also mentioned several high-profile names as potential future opponents, including Canelo Alvarez, Francis Ngannou, Conor McGregor, Ryan Garcia, KSI and Chris Eubank Jr. However, these names should not be confused with confirmed negotiations for the December event.

MVP has yet to reveal the official opponent, complete event details or broadcast arrangements. The promotion is expected to share further information as negotiations progress.

For now, December 24 is firmly marked on Paul’s boxing calendar. Whether Darren Till eventually signs the contract or another fighter gets the opportunity, the comeback will attract considerable attention following the American’s serious injury.

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