The boxing world was surprised by the sudden announcement on August 21, 2025, that YouTuber-turned-prizefighter Jake Paul will face WBA lightweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis in an exhibition bout on Friday, November 14, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, streaming live on Netflix. This revelation came unexpectedly, as Paul had been linked to a potential heavyweight clash with former unified champion Anthony Joshua, and Davis was expected to pursue a rematch with Lamont Roach Jr. following their majority draw in March. Despite prior negotiations between Paul and Davis being put on hold after Davis’s draw, both fighters ultimately reached an agreement for this high-profile matchup.

The fight prompts several questions, particularly regarding its rationale, the process of its arrangement, and the implications for both fighters' other potential opponents. The significant weight difference between Davis, a 135-pound world champion, and Paul, who last fought at the cruiserweight limit of 200 pounds, is a major talking point. Jake Paul has long included Gervonta Davis on his