Former UFC star’s high-profile bet underscores continued betting surge around crossover boxing events
BiggerZ has confirmed that it facilitated a $20,000 wager placed by former UFC fighter Nate Diaz on the forthcoming boxing bout between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua, a matchup that has already generated significant attention across both combat sports and betting circles.
The wager, which Diaz shared publicly on social media, carries a potential payout of approximately $142,000 based on the odds available at the time the bet was placed. Images of the bet slip quickly circulated online, sparking discussion among fans, analysts and industry observers, given Diaz’s long-standing rivalry with Paul and his prominent status within mixed martial arts and crossover boxing.
According to BiggerZ, the bet was placed through its sportsbook platform ahead of the Paul–Joshua contest, a fight that pits a YouTube personality-turned-boxer against a former unified heavyweight world champion. The bout is widely viewed as one of the most commercially compelling crossover events to date, combining mainstream celebrity appeal with elite-level boxing credentials.
Diaz has remained a high-profile figure since departing the UFC, leveraging his popularity through ventures in boxing and other combat sports appearances. In 2023, he faced Paul in a professional boxing match, further cementing his association with the influencer-led boxing movement. His continued visibility and outspoken persona have made his betting activity notable, particularly when it intersects with headline-grabbing events such as this one.
The wager also reflects broader trends within the global betting market. Operators have consistently reported elevated betting volumes on celebrity-driven and crossover boxing events, which attract audiences well beyond traditional boxing demographics. These fights often draw casual fans, social media followers and first-time bettors, creating spikes in engagement across digital betting platforms.
BiggerZ stated that the wager was processed through its standard sportsbook offering, which operates alongside the company’s casino products across multiple international markets. The operator did not disclose whether the bet was linked to any promotional activity, noting only that it was placed in line with its usual wagering procedures.
High-profile Jake Paul fights have previously delivered record-breaking results for major betting groups. In November 2024, Entain revealed that the Mike Tyson vs Jake Paul exhibition became the most bet-on boxing event in the company’s history across brands such as BetMGM, Coral and Ladbrokes. Entain data further showed that Paul had featured in six of its 25 most bet-on boxing matches, underlining his sustained appeal among bettors.
With the Paul–Joshua fight approaching, industry expectations are that betting interest will once again surge, driven by the combination of celebrity influence, competitive intrigue and widespread media coverage.
