Jake Paul is officially a top ranked cruiserweight contender, eligible for a voluntary world title challenge.
The YouTuber-turned-fighter has fought on 13 occasions, picking up 12 wins to one loss. The majority of names on his record came against former UFC fighters either making their boxing debut or not far from it. 58-year-old Mike Tyson is also featured after Paul controversially beat him over the eight-round distance last year. Most recently, he clearly outpointed former middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, 39. The one loss came at the hands of Tommy Fury.
With a world title the ultimate goal, Paul has now received the backing of the WBA. Following this weekend’s victory in Anaheim, the sanctioning body promptly slotted him in as number 14 in the cruiserweight world rankings, just five behind former world champion Chris Billam-Smith. 15th is undefeated American Craig Parker, who has 20 wins with 20 knockouts. It is unclear, though unlikely, whether the same would have been awarded to Chavez Jr should he have won. Also up in the air is how long Paul will keep hold of the slot, considering he is reportedly close to agreeing a bizarre exhibition fight against lightweight world champion, Gervonta Davis, next.
The WBA Champion, Gilberto Ramirez – who also holds the WBO belt – has said he would be open to a defence against Paul, though has eyes on fellow champion Jai Opetaia in order to take another step closer to undisputed status. The WBC Champion, Badou Jack, is also reportedly considering facing Paul, with the 28-year-old looking to feature in those rankings with the next update.
The development will anger a lot of fans who feel Paul – who has done good work on the promotional side of the sport, particularly for women’s boxing – is undeserving. WBA President, Gilberto Mendoza, recently posted on social media that he will be discussing the move this week. He directed it to the ‘haters.’
“I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend. Last night enjoyed the Paul-Chavez show and the unforgettable atmosphere. At the moment just enjoying my Sunday with my queen. Please haters save some energy for Tuesday when I will talk about Jake Paul’s WBA ranking in the cruiserweight division.”
