Anderson Silva insists he is fighting for the passion of the sport, and isn't taking on Jake Paul simply for the sizeable payout which comes from facing the YouTube star.
Paul has emerged as one of the most profitable stars in the boxing world since turning professional at the start of 2020, and has made millions from the sport in his five professional bouts and one white collar outing. Now, he takes a considerable step up in UFC legend Silva, who has a winning professional boxing record and a number of physical advantages.
However, critics have claimed that the fight is little more than a cash-grab for 47-year-old Silva, whose best days in the UFC were over a decade ago. And the Brazilian insists that he is doing fine financially, and doesn't need the money even though he will earn a substantial payday for the bout.