Jake Paul was given the number 14 spot in the WBA’s cruiserweight world rankings following his victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
The YouTuber-turned-fighter beat Chavez over the ten round distance via unanimous decision, with the 39-year-old former middleweight champion from Mexico not switching on until the last couple of rounds. He was widely criticised for his passive effort.
Despite Chavez being extremely inactive and not a ranked contender himself, the WBA made the move to instate Paul in its rankings, making him eligible for a world title shot against champion Gilberto Ramirez – who also holds the WBO belt – should he want to make a voluntary defence.
The news was met with criticism from most in the sport. Paul’s record is largely filled with retired MMA fighters and the one man who could be considered a legitimate cruiserweight competitor was Tommy Fury, whom he lost to.
Unbeaten 200 pounder Craig Parker spoke out on being moved from number 14 to 15 to accomodate Paul.
“It’s a struggle to be ranked in the WBA or any belt and stuff like that, so for him just to take a position that guys like me that struggle to find a ways to the gym, it’s a long road to be where we at you know, and for him just to be number 14 it was a slap in the face. What can I say? It was disgusting news to me.”
That damning verdict, alongside plenty more from other suitable voices, has reportedly led the sanctioning body to now review the decision just days after actioning it, as per the Ring Magazine.
Paul’s promotional company, Most Valuable Promotions, appeared to respond to the move on Instagram, saying:
“Can’t say we are surprised. But no matter what, he will not be stopped. Fall down ten times get back up every single time. Expect them to hate what they can’t control.”
The WBA’s official decision is expected in due course.
