Jawy Mendez Returns to the Cage
Jawy Mendez is officially back. The MMA world is buzzing after the announcement that the reality TV icon turned professional fighter will return to action. On Thursday, February 26, Mendez steps back into the “La Jaula” for a high-stakes featured bout. This event marks the massive 2026 season opener for COMBATE GLOBAL.
Broadcast live on EstrellaTV from Burbank, California, this fight represents a pivotal moment for Mendez. Currently holding a 1-1 professional record, the star is eager to prove that his previous victory was no fluke. Fans are already calling it one of the most anticipated matchups of the early year.
The Rise of the Mexican Jake Paul
Mendez has truly earned his nickname, “The Mexican Jake Paul” Initially, many critics dismissed his transition from MTV’s Acapulco Shore to the grueling world of MMA. However, he quickly silenced the doubters with raw power and an unbreakable spirit. He has transformed from a television personality into a legitimate combat sports threat.
Campbell McLaren, the CEO of COMBATE GLOBAL and co-founder of the UFC, has praised Mendez’s evolution. McLaren noted that while the fight world didn’t take him seriously at first, his recent performances have shifted that perception. Mendez is no longer just a celebrity guest; he is a dedicated athlete hungry for a winning record.
A Dominant Knockout Performance
To understand the hype, we must look back at his last performance in April 2025. Mendez faced Rafael Monterola in a 175-pound catchweight bout that left the crowd in Miami breathless. Throughout the fight, Mendez showcased vastly improved striking and defensive awareness.
In the second round, Mendez landed a devastating right hand that sent Monterola to the canvas. He didn’t stop there. Mendez transitioned to a dominant ground-and-pound attack, forcing the referee to stop the fight at the 3:59 mark. This TKO victory proved that Mendez possesses the finishing power required to climb the ranks in COMBATE GLOBAL.
From Reality TV to Professional Glory
Before he was throwing punches, Jawy Mendez was a household name across Latin America. He starred in nine seasons of Acapulco Shore and appeared in hits like Hotel VIP and La Granja VIP. Despite his massive success on screen, Mendez chose to risk his reputation to pursue a second career in the cage.
His debut in 2023 against Johan Rodriguez ended in a loss, but his tenacity won over the fans. He showed a “never say die” attitude that resonated with the Hispanic MMA community. Now, with a year of intense training under his belt, he is ready to solidify his legacy as a dual-threat entertainer and fighter.
What to Expect in Burbank
The upcoming fight will be contested at a catchweight of 175 pounds. While his opponent remains a mystery for now, the intensity of Mendez’s preparation is certain. For his last camp, he relocated to Miami to train with the elite MMA Masters team.
As COMBATE GLOBAL continues to outpace other sports in Hispanic viewership, stars like Mendez are essential. His blend of celebrity appeal and genuine fighting skill creates a unique spectacle. Mark your calendars for February 26 to see if “The Mexican Jake Paul” can secure another highlight-reel finish.
