Anderson Silva says Jake Paul not an easy fight but doesn't see himself losing

Former UFC middleweight world champion Anderson Silva does not expect an easy fight when he takes on YouTuber-turned-professional boxer Jake Paul on October 30 (Manila time) at the Gila River Arena in Glendale, Arizona.

Silva, 47, is coming off back-to-back wins over former world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Tito Ortiz last year following his retirement from mixed martial arts. Though seen as a major step up for Paul, Silva concedes that the YouTuber would not be an easy opponent.

“There’s a lot of people who are saying Jake is no good, he’s not as good a striker,” Silva said during his media workout.

“But to me, the fight is a fight and I’m training hard to win this fight. I’m not looking at this as an easy fight for me. Every single fight is dangerous once you step through the ropes.”

And while the mixed martial arts legend expects a competitive contest on fight night, he nevertheless sees himself winning the bout. Furthermore, Silva stressed that he is not fighting because of the money.

“I’m not going to lose. Nothing will affect my legacy. I’ve worked hard for many years to do something like this for my fans. This is one more fight – one more challenge for myself, but this won’t affect my legacy and career,” Silva said.

“I don’t need the money anymore. People think money is important, but it’s not. Of course, I’m going to make money from this fight because it’s my job. Don’t do something just for the money. Work because you have a passion. That’s what I’ve done and why I’ve been successful all my life.”

—JMB, GMA News