Jake Paul is adamant that a legitimate world title is his goal in the sport of boxing.
The YouTuber-turned-fighter has made a name for himself inside the ropes by beating retired MMA fighters – namely Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz – and a handful of low-level boxers.
He has one loss on his record to Tommy Fury, and will return to the ring later this year in a controversial bout against former undisputed heavyweight champion Mike Tyson.
Whilst some in the sport aren’t happy with his entry, others believe it is bringing fresh eyes to the fight game. One such man is WBA President Gilberto Mendoza, who, after Paul’s latest win over bareknuckle boxer Mike Perry, posted on social media that he would be open to putting Paul in a championship fight. He suggested Julio Cesar Chavez Jr as an opponent, meaning it wouldn’t be the world title the 27-year-old is after but perhaps a newly-created belt.
In an interview with ES News the idea was put to current WBA Cruiserweight World Champion Gilberto Ramirez, who said he would take it for big money and knock Paul out in four rounds.
“F**k yeah, why not? Who cares? Easy money. Knock him out, four rounds. Give some entertainment to the people.”
Ramirez – along with Jai Opetaia, Chris Billam-Smith and Norair Mikaeljan – is the level of champion Paul must target if he wants to achieve his goal. Many feel it won’t happen for him. He faces Tyson on November 15 over eight two-minute rounds.
