Jake Paul reacts to Scott Coker’s new MMA promotion: ‘They gonna lose all their money’

Jake Paul has publicly expressed doubt regarding the profitability of Scott Coker's upcoming mixed martial arts promotion, which is reportedly set to debut in 2026. Coker, a long-standing figure in combat sports promotion, recently confirmed his return to the helm of an MMA organisation, backed by a substantial $60 million investment. Paul, himself a prominent figure in the boxing and influencer boxing scene, has been vocal about his assessment, predicting financial losses for the new venture.

Scott Coker brings decades of experience to this new endeavour. His previous tenures at the helm of Strikeforce and, more recently, Bellator MMA, saw him cultivate significant talent and deliver memorable events. Strikeforce, in particular, was a major force in the sport before its acquisition by the UFC, showcasing stars like Ronda Rousey and Nate Diaz. Bellator, under Coker's leadership, established itself as a strong number two promotion in North America, known for its tournament formats and diverse roster.

Paul's scepticism, however, highlights the immense challenges and financial risks inherent in launching and sustaining a major MMA promotion in the current landscape. The market is dominated by the UFC, with other organisations like ONE Championship and PFL also vying for attention and investment. For Coker's new promotion to succeed, it will need to carve out a unique identity, attract top-tier talent, and secure a consistent viewership base, all while managing significant operational costs. The substantial $60 million backing provides a runway, but Paul's comments suggest the path to profitability will be steep.

Whether this new promotion can overcome the financial hurdles and establish a lasting presence remains to be seen. The combat sports world will be watching closely to see if Coker can replicate his past successes against the backdrop of a more competitive and demanding market.