Jake Paul vs. Cedric Doumbe: Boxing Return Set for Christmas Eve in Dubai

Jake Paul is returning to the ring this Christmas Eve to face French MMA star Cedric Doumbe, according to TMZ ^[1]. The bout, scheduled for December 24 in Dubai, marks Paul’s first fight since his brutal stoppage loss to Anthony Joshua last December.

Paul confirmed the matchup via a press release, noting that Doumbe had called him out two years ago after a nine-second knockout, the Independent reported ^[2]. "Well, Douchebag, now you get your chance," Paul said, referring to Doumbe with his trademark irreverence. "I’m rusty, my jaw is janky and I don’t have kickboxing world titles like you do. But guess what, this isn’t kickboxing mon ami. This is BOXING."

The fight is professionally sanctioned as an eight-round cruiserweight bout, with both fighters wearing 10-ounce gloves, TMZ noted ^[1]. Paul’s jaw, which was shattered by Joshua, required multiple surgeries, including titanium plate installations and tooth extractions. Despite his doctor advising him not to box again, Paul has chosen to defy those medical wishes, the Independent stated ^[2].

Doumbe, 34, is a multi-time kickboxing world champion who transitioned to mixed martial arts in 2021. He is currently signed to the PFL, the promotion that merged with Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions in July, according to TMZ ^[1]. While Doumbe has a formidable record in kickboxing and MMA, he has only one professional boxing win on his record, dating back to 2015, the Independent reported ^[2].

In a statement, Doumbe declared that he intends to "eat ‘El Poulet’ for dinner" in Dubai. "After what Joshua did to his jaw, I'm not sure how much talking he has left," Doumbe said. "I'm going to finish the job Joshua started."

Paul, 29, holds a professional boxing record of 12-2, with losses only to Tommy Fury and Anthony Joshua. He previously beat former UFC champions Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley, as well as Mike Tyson in 2024, the Independent noted ^[2]. Paul had briefly entered the WBA cruiserweight rankings after a victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in July 2025, but lost that standing following the Joshua defeat, TMZ reported ^[1].

The rivalry will heat up next week with press conferences in Paris and Dubai. Paul, who jokingly referred to himself as the "Problem Child," told French fans to "excuse-moi" for the punishment he intends to deliver. Doumbe promised to wave the French flag over Paul’s unconscious body, adding a patriotic flair to the holiday bout. This Christmas Eve, the squared circle in Dubai will be the stage for a clash of cultures, records, and broken jaws.