Jake Paul makes his return to the ring in California tonight to face Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
The Youtuber-turned-boxer clashes with the Mexican former WBC world middleweight champion at the Honda Center in Anaheim.
As for Chavez, the 39-year-old Mexican will be looking to prove the doubters wrong and hand ‘The Problem Child’ just the second defeat of his career.
He has been criticised in the past for a lack of desire and commitment to the sport, and has suffered well-documented issues outside of the ropes. In fact, his fighting legend father, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr, called for him to retire back in 2016.
“I’m going to come right out and say it because I can’t keep covering up. If this young man, who is my son, keeps with this lack of discipline…this irresponsibility that he has, I just recommend that he retire and doesn’t fight anymore.”
However, in a recent interview with ESPN Knockout, Chavez Sr shared one final insight into his son’s chances of being victorious against Paul, having spent time watching him train and being impressed by a newfound commitment.
“Honestly, this fight is a blessing from God. Once you’re in the ring, everyone’s got a chance. Every fighter with gloves on has a shot. Jake Paul is a young fighter, he’s very motivated, he trains well, and it’s clear he hits hard – but he doesn’t have the quality, you know, as a boxer to beat my son.
“I’ve gone to see Julio train twice, and I’ve been truly impressed. Never in his life have I seen him train as hard as he is for this fight. And if he keeps going like this, I told him there’s no doubt in my mind he’s going to beat Jake Paul.”
