Jake Paul and the world title: Who is his best rival now?

Jake Paul Gets His Biggest Win Against Julio César Chávez Jr.

In Anaheim, California, Jake Paul achieved his most significant victory by defeating former WBC middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr., by unanimous decision in a 10-round cruiserweight bout. Paul, with a record of 12-1 and 7 knockouts, has made clear his goal of becoming a world champion, and this victory brings him closer to that dream. However, his experience is limited, with only one amateur fight and 13 professional fights. The quality of his opponents also raises questions, as he has faced former MMA fighters, lower-level boxers, a YouTuber, and a former NBA player, in addition to Mike Tyson. Although Chávez Jr. is experienced, he is no longer at his best. Paul demonstrated notable improvements since his only defeat to Tommy Fury in 2023. If Paul aims to fight for a cruiserweight world title, his options include WBC champion Badou Jack; Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez, who defended his WBA and WBO titles in the co-main event; and Jai Opetaia, holder of the IBF title. The WBA and WBC have suggested that an outstanding performance by Paul could lead to him being ranked by these organizations, while the IBF and WBO have not commented on the matter.

“I don’t care, bro,” Paul said after the fight. “I have a lot of time. I’m 28 years old. I’ll fight anyone, anytime, anywhere.”

Jake Paul

Given the circumstances, what is the next realistic step for Paul and against whom does he have the best chances?

• Badou Jack: Jack, WBC champion since February 2023, has only had one defense. A fight with Paul could materialize at the end of 2025. Although Jack is 41 years old, he is still dangerous. It would be a great challenge for Paul, but he would have an advantage in reach and seems to have adapted to the cruiserweight.
• Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez: Ramírez, 34 years old, defeated Yuniel Dorticos on Saturday. The WBA could consider ranking Paul, which makes him an option. Ramírez seems more interested in a unification with Opetaia, but a fight with Paul would not be surprising.
• Jai Opetaia: Opetaia, 29 years old, is the most outstanding in the cruiserweight division, with speed and power. The IBF has not shown interest in ranking Paul, and this would be the most difficult fight.

The most likely rival: Tommy Fury. A rematch against Fury, with no title at stake, is a more realistic option for Paul, who has improved significantly since his last fight. The time is right to avenge the defeat. This fight would generate great expectation and a solid narrative, as long as an agreement is reached.