Jake Paul doesn’t seem too concerned by the news that his spot in the WBA cruiserweight top 15 is under review.
Following his dominant win over former middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, Paul was added to the WBA rankings, a decision that drew plenty of controversy. The Ring Magazine has since reported that his ranking is now being re-examined.
Paul’s rise up the rankings followed three wins over established boxers, including victories over 10-1 Andre August and 17-2 Ryan Bourland, on either side of his fight with Mike Tyson.. Chavez Jr entered their bout with a 54-6-1 record, though some critics pointed to his age and past struggles with discipline.
According to The Ring, the review comes after “heavy criticism and outrage from other ranked contenders.” The WBA is expected to address Paul’s status at their upcoming European convention in Madrid.
Paul responded to the reports by posting a simple message on X: “Life is good.”
His promotional team, Most Valuable Promotions, added on Instagram: “Can’t say we are surprised. But no matter what, he will not be stopped. Fall down 10 times, get back up every single time. Expect them to hate what they can’t control.”
It’s worth noting that The Ring Magazine, which reported the review, is owned by Turki Alalshikh, who has a public feud with Paul and hasn’t worked with him in the past.
During fight week, The Ring posted several negative comments about Paul, including one about low ticket prices for the Chavez Jr fight, despite it having a record-breaking gate.
Paul now has his sights set on a world title shot. He faced off with WBA champion Gilberto Ramirez after beating Chavez Jr and is also targeting a ranking with the WBC, where Badou Jack holds the belt.
Jack, who turns 42 in October, is an experienced two-division champion but is seen by some as being past his prime.
Paul addressed the potential matchup on X, writing: “Shoutout to the WBA and Gilberto for being disruptors and not being afraid to recognize me. Seeing all these lists with current champion Badou Jack. Give me him next.”
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