Having recently faced his first loss in a split decision against Tommy Fury in February, the 26-year-old Ohio native stepped into the ring with a strong resolve, intent on swiftly dismantling Diaz in his debut as a professional boxer. Paul's forceful strategy appeared primed for victory, notably highlighted when he unleashed a potent left hook during the fifth round, resulting in the UFC veteran Diaz toppling onto the canvas headfirst.

In the face of potential defeat, Diaz not only managed to rise again but pursued Paul relentlessly throughout each successive round, delivering an engaging spectacle to the Dallas audience, even though he couldn't secure a victory. Ultimately, the judges awarded scores of 98-91, 98-91, and 97-92 in favor of Paul, propelling his career record to 7-1 with this triumphant outcome.

Dispensing with the usual process of gauging his opponent, Paul promptly adopted an assertive stance, initiating a furious barrage of punches directed at Diaz's body and head in swift succession. Paul's objective was evident: he sought to overpower Diaz before he could find his balance, releasing an unrelenting storm of strikes throughout the opening round against the experienced UFC veteran.

Surviving the intense attack, Diaz held strong against the onslaught and initiated his own series of combinations, although Paul's punches retained their greater impact. Nonetheless, Diaz's endurance proved beneficial as he skillfully closed the gap, employing his distinctive high-volume striking to make contact with Paul, even in the face of Paul's more potent blows.

While Paul's pace had clearly tapered off after his initial burst of aggression, he maintained his precision by carefully evaluating his targets before unleashing forceful punches imbued with substantial strength. As expected, Diaz demonstrated remarkable resilience in withstanding the onslaught and even beckoned Paul to intensify his assault.

In the fourth round, Paul surged into action, unleashing a sequence of forceful strikes that featured a precisely executed jab, repeatedly connecting with Diaz from a distance. Diaz, in turn, met Paul's offensive with a self-assured smile, strategically biding his time. This tactic proved effective as Diaz orchestrated a comeback in the latter half of the round, employing a systematic approach to gradually sap the energy of the social influencer turned boxer.

Diaz's tactical game plan ultimately crumbled as Paul unleashed a swift fadeaway left hook that found its mark squarely on the Stockton native, delivering a powerful blow that sent him sprawling to the canvas. The knockdown's intense momentum nearly carried Diaz beyond the ropes, but he demonstrated resilience by rising before the referee reached a count of ten, allowing him to continue the bout.

Diaz's admirable determination allowed him to recover sufficiently and enter the sixth round, although his continual forward momentum inadvertently played into Paul's strategy, providing the opening for him to load up on powerful punches. Moreover, Paul's preference for maintaining distance was apparent, as he elegantly maneuvered along the perimeter, coaxing Diaz into initiating exchanges, all while astutely seeking opportunities for counterattacks.

Just as Paul seemed to have firmly established control, Diaz once again caught him off guard during the eighth round. With an unwavering assault, Diaz launched a series of forceful strikes, including a couple of staggering uppercuts from close quarters. These potent blows snapped Paul's head back, momentarily unsettling him. Despite this, Diaz remained resolute in his pursuit, showing no signs of slowing down.

Diaz showcased his trademark showmanship by teasing Paul, absorbing a punch before swiftly retaliating with a barrage of three or four strikes. However, Diaz's challenge lay in his inability to inflict significant damage on Paul; even though he consistently ignited reactions from the audience, his approach failed to translate into a winning strategy within the boxing arena.

Meanwhile, Paul's formidable power remained evident, particularly highlighted by the forceful execution of a sharp left hand that prompted Diaz to shield his right eye. The eye showed progressive signs of swelling and bruising. Despite visibly wincing from the discomfort, Diaz persisted in the contest, displaying his unwavering determination. Notably, he briefly attempted a guillotine choke on Paul during a clinch before releasing him, exchanging a knowing smile as they separated.

Looking ahead, Paul remains steadfast in his ambition for a rematch with Diaz, this time transitioning to the cage as he contemplates his MMA debut within the PFL, aiming for a potential opportunity in 2024. In the boxing arena, Paul has yet to dismiss the notion of a rematch with Fury. However, he will have to exercise patience until after October, when the former reality TV star is scheduled to partake in another high-profile boxing bout against KSI.