Former New Zealand international Sonny Bill Williams has confirmed that talks have begun for a future bout with Jake Paul.
The former All Black World Cup winner had trained in Ireland in the winter with former WBO middleweight champion Andy Lee and made a victorious return to boxing when he knocked out Australian Barry Hall last month.
Jake Paul also added fuel to rumours of a possible clash when he named SBW among a list of possible opponents, including Floyd Mayweather, Oscar De La Hoya and former UFC Middleweight Champions Anderson Silva.
Williams confirmed he is in negotiations to fight in August and that Paul's team have made contact about a fight.
"Jake Paul, his people have reached out to mine and they're talking so who knows."
Since starting his boxing career, Jake Paul has a 5-0 record, with his last victory coming against former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley.
Speaking to Australian media, Williams has spoken about the magnitude of a possible bout against the youtuber.
“It’s very humbling that my name is getting mentioned at that type of level."
"It would be massive because all of Australasia will get going, he’s got the American crowd, all the UK crowd would be keen for the action. It would be a world event."
Jake Paul has been a controversial figure in the boxing world, calling out big name MMA fighters such as Conor McGregor and Jorge Masvidal, while often taking aim at UFC President Dana White.
Despite his unusual approach that has worked for him through his career, Williams respects Paul skills and how he has promoted his fights.
“The beauty of this fight, if it is to come to fruition, is I respect how Jake Paul has gone about things in the boxing ring. He’s put his head down and arse up, he’s worked hard.
You can see the improvements he’s made in his last three years, I actually rate his boxing skills and prowess in the ring. It would be a great fight if it happened, but at the same time I’ve got a lot of options out there as well.”
SEE ALSO: Sonny Bill Williams Annihilates Ex-AFL Player Barry Hall In First Round
