Sport

Man Utd icon Wayne Rooney held talks for Jake Paul boxing match as Eddie Hearn says Old Trafford fight is ‘makeable’

Manchester United icon Wayne Rooney has held talks about a potential boxing match against YouTuber Jake Paul, according to reports.

Promoter Eddie Hearn says he believes a fight between Rooney and Paul is ‘makeable’, with Old Trafford a potential venue for the bout.

The 34-year-old former England captain is said to have been approached about the fight, as Paul continues to look for a high-profile opponent for his third professional bout.

He has already beaten former NBA player Nate Robinson, and is due to face former UFC fighter Ben Askren in April.

Hearn told the Daily Star: “I think it is makeable if Wayne Rooney wants it – and I think Wayne Rooney wants it.

“He has been very vocal on social media about it. I think he fancies the fight.”

The 24-year-old Paul has been vocal on social media about his desire to fight Rooney, who is currently the manager of Derby County.

Rooney has not yet responded publicly to the challenge, but Hearn believes he could be tempted to take part.

“Paul is a showman – and this is the biggest show in town,” he added.

“I think it is a great fight and I think Old Trafford is the perfect venue for it.”

The bout between Rooney and Paul could be a big draw for fans, with the former Manchester United star being one of the most decorated players in the club’s history.

If the fight does go ahead, it could be one of the biggest events of the year, with both men known for their larger-than-life personalities.

It remains to be seen if the fight will go ahead, but Rooney and Paul have both expressed interest in it, and promoter Eddie Hearn believes a deal could be struck.