Celebrity boxer Jake Paul has emerged victorious in his cruiserweight fight against former middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 99-91, 97-93, and 98-92.
The 10-round fight took place at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, marking Paul’s triumphant return to the ring seven months after his notable bout against 58-year-old former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson.
Paul’s victory showcased his skill and determination in the ring. Despite Chavez Jr’s experience as a former World Boxing Council (WBC) middleweight champion, Paul’s relentless pressure and precise punches secured his win. Chavez Jr, who has not held a major title in 13 years, struggled to mount a significant challenge against Paul’s aggressive style.
The fight was not without controversy, as Paul had previously mocked Chavez Jr’s addiction problems and lack of mentality. Chavez Jr’s personal issues have been well-documented, including struggles with motivation, weight management, substance abuse, and a notable defeat to former UFC fighter Anderson Silva in 2021. Despite these challenges, Chavez Jr acknowledged Paul’s strength, calling him a “good fighter” but expressed doubts about Paul’s readiness to face top champions.
Following his victory, Paul issued a challenge to several current and former WBC champions, including Zurdo Ramirez, Badou Jack, Anthony Joshua, Gervonta Davis, and Tommy Fury. “I want tougher fighters, I want to be world champion,” Paul declared in the ring to streaming service DAZN. His confidence and determination underscore his aspirations to rise to the top of the boxing world.
The win may also have implications for Paul’s ranking within the WBC. According to WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman, the committee has been monitoring Paul’s career and would likely consider ranking him if he wins convincingly. “If he defeats Chavez, and depending on how the fight plays out, the committee will make the decision. It’s very likely [Paul will be ranked] if he wins convincingly,” Sulaiman said.
Paul also reignited his feud with Mexican boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez, accusing him of “ducking” their proposed fight. Paul claimed to have a signed contract for a bout with Alvarez, which fell through when Alvarez signed a lucrative four-fight deal with Turki Alalshikh’s Riyadh Season. “The truth is, you [Alvarez] could be bought,” Paul said, criticizing Alvarez for prioritizing financial gain over their potential matchup.