Holly Holm Returns to Boxing After 12 Years with Jake Paul's Promotion

Holly Holm Signs with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, Set for First Boxing Match in 12 Years
After more than a decade away from the boxing ring, former champion and UFC star Holly Holm is stepping back into her boxing roots—this time with a fresh twist. The 42-year-old combat sports legend has just signed with Jake Paul's Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), sparking excitement across the combat sports community and raising plenty of eyebrows in the process.
The Return of "The Preacher's Daughter"
Holly Holm isn’t just another fighter coming out of retirement. She’s a former world boxing champion with multiple titles under her belt and an impressive combat résumé that stretches across multiple disciplines. Nicknamed "The Preacher’s Daughter" for her humble beginnings and composed fighting style, Holm first transitioned to MMA years ago and reached the pinnacle of the sport when she famously knocked out Ronda Rousey in 2015. That victory shocked the world and cemented her as a pioneer in women's combat sports.
But if you're thinking this comeback is about reliving the past, think again. Holm seems hungry, focused, and ready to remind people why she was once the talk of boxing. And with MVP backing her, she’s stepping into this new chapter with major promotional power behind her.
Why Jake Paul's Promotion?
MVP, founded by YouTuber-turned-professional-boxer Jake Paul and his longtime advisor Nakisa Bidarian, has quickly made a name for itself in the boxing world. While traditional promoters sometimes hesitate to take risks, MVP has become known for shaking up the fight game, pushing crossovers, and giving underrepresented fighters a platform.
In many ways, Holm signing with MVP feels like a meeting of disruption and legacy. Jake Paul has grown his own combat brand through viral moments and hard-earned credibility in the boxing world, and Holm—respected, disciplined, and battle-tested—brings legitimacy and experience. It’s a pairing that could create fireworks, both inside and outside the ring.
Looking Ahead: Who Will Holm Fight?
At the moment, no opponent or date has been officially announced. But rest assured, speculation is already swirling. Will she face a rising star from the women’s boxing scene or perhaps another big name making a comeback? Here’s what we do know:
- Holm is planning to remain active in the UFC while also boxing—yes, she’s pulling double duty.
- Her return bout will be her first professional boxing match since retiring in 2013.
- She’s aiming to become a two-sport champion—an incredibly rare feat for any athlete.
Is she biting off more than she can chew? Time will tell. But if there’s one thing Holm has consistently shown throughout her career, it’s her ability to rise to the occasion.
Holm’s Legacy—and the Chance to Expand It
Before stepping away from boxing in 2013, Holm had already made history. With a 33-2-3 boxing record and multiple world titles across weight classes, her resume speaks volumes. Transitioning to MMA was already seen as a bold move, but dominating there took her legacy to another level.
Coming back now gives her the chance to inspire an entirely new generation of fight fans—and perhaps reclaim part of the spotlight she once owned. And let’s be honest, in the age of crossover fights and celebrity matchups, Holm’s return offers some real athletic credibility.
Thinking about how much women’s boxing has evolved in the past decade—with champions like Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano leading the charge—Holm’s return adds depth to the division. Imagine a future showdown between Holm and Serrano, who also happens to be part of MVP. That’s a match that could draw major attention from both MMA and boxing fans alike.
Why This Move Matters for Women’s Combat Sports
Holm’s signing with MVP isn’t just a career move—it’s a statement. In a sports world still working toward equity in pay, exposure, and opportunities for women, her decision signals that athletes don’t have to be boxed in—literally or figuratively.
For younger fighters watching from the sidelines, Holm is once again showing that there’s more than one way to build a career. You can evolve. You can shift between sports. And yes, you can do it at 42 with the same fire and ambition as day one.
Jake Paul himself echoed that sentiment, saying in the official press release that Holm is a “legend” and that they’re “honored to partner with her.” While Paul’s reputation may be polarizing in some circles, he’s continued to champion fighters—especially women—who deserve the spotlight.
So, What Happens Next?
Expect an announcement soon. MVP knows how to build hype, and with Holm's massive fan base still active from both MMA and boxing, there’s already a solid foundation for promotion.
In the meantime, keep an eye on Holm’s training. At 42, many would consider her far beyond her prime. But let’s not forget—she knocked out one of the most feared champions in UFC history. And she did it with precision, timing, and nerves of steel.
The question now is: Can she do it again in the boxing ring?
Final Thoughts
Holly Holm’s return is more than just a comeback—it’s a bold move that connects generations, disciplines, and fan bases. Partnering with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions may raise a few eyebrows, but it’s a calculated leap into the modern era of sports entertainment.
With women’s boxing on the rise and combat sports constantly evolving, Holm re-entering the mix isn’t just exciting—it’s important. She’s blending legacy with opportunity, and in doing so, proving that trailblazers never stop blazing trails.
So grab your gloves (or popcorn). Holly Holm is back—and it’s going to be one memorable ride.