Jake Paul to return from broken jaw for Christmas Eve boxing bout

Oct. 29 (UPI) -- Jake Paul will return to boxing for the first time since he sustained a broken jaw on Dec. 24 in Dubai, Most Valuable Promotions announced Thursday.

Paul, who sustained jaw fractures during a loss to Anthony Joshua on Dec. 19 in Miami, underwent multiple surgeries to address the issue. His next opponent will be announced at a later date.

"We've got plenty of names on the list," Paul said in a statement . "Let's see who signs the contract. Merry Christmas, Dubai. Santa Paul is coming to town, and somebody's getting knocked out."

Paul (12-2) won the first six bouts of his career. He took his first loss -- by split decision -- in 2023 to Tommy Fury. Paul went on to win his next six bouts before his loss to Joshua.

"I've spent years proving people wrong, taking risks and pushing myself against opponents nobody thought I'd face," Paul said. "Nothing that's happened has changed my belief in myself or what I'm working toward.

"I'm hungrier than ever and on Thursday, December 24, I'm returning to the ring in Dubai to start the next chapter of my journey.

Earlier this month, Paul released a list of desired future matchups , including potential opponents Canelo Alvarez, Francis Ngannou, Deontay Wilder and Ryan Garcia, among others.