Former UFC middleweight Uriah Hall had a successful boxing debut.
Hall handed former NFL running back Le’Veon Bell his first loss in the sport on Saturday. After his unanimous decision win, Hall said he wants Jake Paul next.
“I definitely think I could take him,” Hall told reporters.
“He has an awkward style. I was watching him. His style will lure you in. It’s almost like it’s hard to hit him, the way he stands a certain way and throws these awkward punches.
“In all his fights, he almost does the same thing. I definitely think I could give him a challenge, because I’ll come at him. He’ll hit me, but I’ll come at him. I don’t back up with boxing gloves on. I take a couple shots, but I’ll come at you. Le’Veon (Bell) was probably one of the hardest-hitting dudes with those gloves on that I’ve ever felt. I don’t think Jake hits that hard.”
Uriah Hall calls out Jake Paulpic.twitter.com/2oGNcnBygp
— Jed I. Goodman © (@jedigoodman) October 30, 2022
Hall and Bell met on the undercard of Paul vs Anderson Silva. In the first round, Bell came out strong and worked his jab while Hall seemed to be looking for an early knockout.
That never came, but Hall began to find his footing and went on to maintain control for the remaining three rounds.
It wasn’t as action-packed as some fans expected, forcing some boos from the crowd.
Hall won the four-round cruiserweight bout with 40-36 on all three of the judges’ scorecards.
Despite the loss, Bell said he’s leaving the sport just yet.
“I didn’t get the W, but I worked so hard to make it here … def not the last time you’ll see me in the ring, I just gotta get better … in my first pro fight, I fought a legit monster! much respect to Uriah Hall .. great warrior, it was an honor to share the ring with him tonight.”