DALLAS – Jake Paul is very aware of his role in his upcoming fight with Mike Tyson.

Paul, 27, steps into a boxing ring in a sanctioned fight against the former world heavyweight champion and one of the most iconic sporting figures of all time. If Wednesday’s press conference is any indication, it’s very clear who the fan favorite is, and it’s certainly not Paul.

And he’s okay with that.

Paul proved to be a polarizing figure in the sport when the former YouTuber decided to take up boxing just over four years ago. He has achieved box office success, amassing a 10-1 record with 7 KOs, but has also received his fair share of criticism for the choices of his opponents, ranging from fellow YouTubers to MMA fighters. The confrontation with a 58-year-old Tyson who has not participated in a professional boxing match for almost twenty years will not calm the skeptics.

“I don’t care about their opinions because I’ve seen what people are cheering for,” Paul told a room full of reporters. “I kept trying to show people that I’m a good person and look at all the good I’m doing in the world. And no one was buying it. And one day I thought, f… can go and haven’t since looked more backwards.”

Paul has embraced the hate and isn’t surprised by the number of people hoping to see him lose to Tyson on Friday night. At the end of Wednesday’s press conference, nine of the twelve undercard fighters picked Tyson to defeat Paul, and “El Gallo” challenged those who picked him to put their money where their mouth is with a friendly bet.

It’s safe to say that Paul is embracing the role of the villain on Friday night.

“I kept trying to show people that I’m a good person and look at all the good I’m doing in the world. And no one was buying it. And one day I thought, f… can go and haven’t since looked more backwards.”

Jake Paul

“Yes, it’s exactly what I wanted and brought to my career,” said Paul. “I tell people I’m pissing them off on purpose and they still hate me, and some of them don’t realize they’re fueling my game. It’s great, and I don’t disagree with them. That’s why this is so.” one big event. It’s the ultimate hero and the ultimate heel, and that’s the perfect recipe for success.”

To further fan the flames, Paul has promised that the fight won’t last long.

“I fear no man,” said Paul. “I want him to be that old wild Mike. He says he’s going to kill me. I’m ready. I want that killer. I want the hardest possible game on Friday night, and I want no excuses from anyone at home .” when I knock him out.”