Jake Paul has seemingly made a new enemy and it isn’t some washed-up mixed martial arts (MMA) fighter looking to box.
Earlier this week, Paul hosted one of his podcasts and spoke with LeBron James’ business partner, Rich Paul, who has a lot of ties to the Cleveland area. The two started talking and the conversation eventually shifted onto rapper and musician, Kid Cudi, who was expected to walk out with Paul for his boxing match with former UFC champion Tyron Woodley in Cleveland back in Aug. 2021.
Remember, that was the biggest fight in Paul’s career at that time and a true homecoming for the Cleveland native. Paul ended up winning the fight via split decision, but he had hoped his walkout would have included Cudi.
“I tried to get him to perform at the Tyron Woodley fight just before I came out and he asked an astronomical fee that was like ‘f—k you,’” Paul said. “And I get it. But this was some sh-t to tap in back with the city, first event back from COVID.
“[I wouldn’t charge a fee] not if someone’s from Cleveland. I’d be doing sh-t for free for people from Cleveland.”
Cudi, who was born in Cleveland, caught wind of Paul’s interview earlier this week and quickly jumped on social media to clear the air and fire shots at “Problem Child” in the process.
Ok so I just saw this and heres my thoughts:
Rich Paul doesn’t know me. He doesn’t know my life. My mom lives in Cleveland and Ive been goin there on holidays and summer breaks for years. Mostly when im in Cleveland, its family time. Im not throwin events in the city cuz its… pic.twitter.com/6pDw5Qw61s
— The Chosen One (@KiDCuDi) December 6, 2023
“As far as Jake Paul, listen chief, I’m an artist. A real one,” wrote Cudi via Twitter. “I make art for a living. I’m not some guy that comes out to perform at boxing matches. I entertained it though cause it was you, and though it went against what I stand for I submitted a fee. My fee is my fee. Especially for some sh-t that’s not my style.
“If I’m gonna do it, it’s gonna be worth it for my pockets and time. This is business baby. I’m not these other rapping ass n****** that will show up for a lil check.”
Paul, who has not competed in Cleveland since the first Woodley fight, remains one of the biggest attractions in boxing today. The social media sensation is coming off a decision win over Nate Diaz this past August and is already preparing for a MMA debut in 2024.
Maybe Paul and Cudi can bury the hatchet for another potential walkout next year. That is, of course, if Paul is willing to cut the big check.
Thoughts?