Paul Sued For $10M Over Hardy Fight

Jake Paul and Most Valuable Promotions are facing a $10 million lawsuit from Heather Hardy over her 2023 bout with Amanda Serrano, according to MMA Junkie.

Hardy alleges Paul and MVP pressured her into a fight she did not want to take against Serrano, resulting in what the complaint describes as lasting neurological damage. The lawsuit cites negligence and violations of the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act.

Hardy Claims Fight Was 'Execution' of Brain-Damaged Boxer

Hardy's complaint alleges Paul used her as a sacrificial opponent to boost Serrano's profile ahead of a rematch with Katie Taylor. "The 2023 Serrano vs. Hardy bout was not a fight; it was an execution," the filing states. Hardy absorbed 278 punches from Serrano, including 242 in a 20-minute span, and was crying in the ring before losing by decision after 10 rounds.

The lawsuit claims Hardy's promoter Lou DiBella refused to negotiate the fight due to safety concerns, and that Hardy unknowingly communicated with Serrano's trainer and brother-in-law Jordan Maldonado instead of Serrano directly. Hardy, who was 44 at the time, retired after the loss and recently launched a GoFundMe campaign for living expenses.

MVP told ESPN that Hardy's participation was arranged through DiBella, who contracted for the fight, and that Hardy expressed gratitude for the opportunity both before and after the bout. "MVP followed applicable protocols for the fight, Heather was medically cleared to compete by the athletic commission overseeing the event," the promotion said in a statement. The promotion maintains it remains committed to fighter safety and full compliance with commission standards.

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• MMA Mania — Jake Paul slapped with $10 million lawsuit for ‘execution’ of brain-damaged boxer, MVP responds