Junior dos Santos Targets Boxing Debut Against Jake Paul, Ngannou at 42

5 articles · Updated · MMA Fighting · May 16

Junior dos Santos said a win over Robelis Despaigne on MVP’s May 16 MMA debut card in Inglewood could finally launch the pro boxing debut he has chased for years.
The 42-year-old former UFC heavyweight champion called Jake Paul and Francis Ngannou his most appealing targets, saying boxing better suits his style and would draw more fan interest than another MMA matchup.
Dos Santos signed a one-fight deal with Most Valuable Promotions after a proposed bout with Jailton Almeida fell through, and said MVP’s boxing ties were a key reason he joined.
Netflix’s role in MVP’s first MMA event also matters to dos Santos, who said a credible new promoter could pressure the UFC to improve conditions for fighters through competition.

Can MVP's celebrity-driven model truly challenge the UFC's reign, or is it just a fleeting spectacle for Netflix subscribers?

Will Netflix's high-profile entry into MMA prove a knockout success or will it tap out after this first major event?

After a knockout loss shattered his boxing dream, what is the final chapter for 42-year-old MMA legend Junior dos Santos?