Jake Paul’s next boxing showcase will not go down as a professional bout. The Florida Athletic Commission has officially ruled that Paul’s highly anticipated matchup with Gervonta “Tank” Davis, scheduled for November 14 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, will be classified as an exhibition fight rather than a pro contest.
Why Is Jake Paul vs. Gervonta Davis an Exhibition?
The decision came down to one major factor: weight difference. Jake Paul last fought at 199.5 pounds, while Davis has historically competed at around 134 pounds. With such a large gap between the fighters, regulators determined the match could not be sanctioned as a professional fight.
According to commission executive director Timothy Shipman, “You can’t do a fight like that as a pro fight. It’ll be an exhibition.”
What Does an Exhibition Status Mean?
The exhibition ruling carries several implications for both Paul and Davis:
- No official record impact: The outcome will not be added to either fighter’s professional record. This could affect Paul, who currently ranks No. 14 in the WBA cruiserweight division.
- Uncertainty on betting markets: Because it’s not a pro fight, sportsbooks may not carry odds or wagers for the bout.
- Rules under review: Officials are still finalizing details such as the number of rounds and glove size.
- Entertainment focus: While competitive, exhibition fights are generally treated as spectacles rather than career-defining bouts.
The Move From Atlanta to Miami
The fight was originally scheduled for Atlanta but was relocated to Miami earlier this week. Reports suggest the move was intended to increase the chances of gaining pro sanctioning, after Georgia’s commission raised concerns. Despite the change, Florida officials have stuck with the exhibition classification.
Streaming on Netflix
Fans can still catch all the action live as the fight will be streamed exclusively on Netflix, further cementing Paul’s status as one of boxing’s top attractions in terms of mainstream visibility.
What This Means for Jake Paul’s Career
Paul has worked hard to be seen as a legitimate boxer, and his June victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. boosted his credibility. However, this exhibition ruling may add fuel to critics who view his fights as sideshow events rather than serious steps toward a title run.
Still, there’s no denying Paul’s star power. With his massive following and Netflix backing, the bout promises to draw attention — even if it won’t count in the official record books.