The world of boxing has always thrived on bold proclamations and improbable challenges, and Jake Paul is no stranger to either. Fresh off his unanimous decision victory over Mike Tyson just 10 days ago, the YouTuber-turned-boxer is making waves yet again. With an 11-1 record under his belt, the 27-year-old fighter isn’t shy about his ambitions. His latest target? None other than Canelo Alvarez, the reigning WBA, WBC, WBO, IBF, and The Ring super middleweight champion.
Paul’s post-fight callout of Alvarez ignited a mix of skepticism and intrigue in the boxing world. Alvarez, with a storied career boasting 62 wins, two losses, and two draws, is widely regarded as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the sport. The idea of a fight between the two has divided fans and experts alike, with many questioning whether Paul is ready to face an opponent of Alvarez’s caliber.
Among those doubting Paul’s chances is Floyd Mayweather Jr., one of only two fighters to have defeated Alvarez. The legendary boxer, who knows firsthand the skill and resilience of Alvarez, didn’t mince words when asked about Paul’s chances in a potential showdown. Speaking to TMZ Sports, Mayweather delivered a blunt assessment. “He’d get f***** up by Canelo,”Mayweather said. “There’s no way he’d win-he’d get demolished.”
Mayweather’s remarks carry weight, considering his own history with the Paul brothers. In 2021, he faced Jake’s brother Logan Paul in an eight-round exhibition. While the fight wasn’t officially scored, it was clear to most observers that Mayweather dominated. Jake, ever the provocateur, used the lead-up to that fight to antagonize Mayweather, famously stealing his hat and issuing his own challenge. However, Mayweather showed little interest in stepping into the ring with Jake at the time.
Mayweather opens the door to a potential clash and Alvarez keeps the possibility alive
The dynamic seems to have shifted, with Mayweather now expressing some openness to the idea of fighting Jake-under one condition. “I’d fight him in a real fight in the weight that I’m at,”Mayweather said, referencing his natural weight class of 147 pounds. He acknowledged Jake’s efforts to promote himself but cast doubt on his ability to compete against seasoned professionals. “For what he’s doing, it’s good, but once he fights a real actual fighter, it’s going to be bad.”
Interestingly, Canelo Alvarez himself hasn’t completely dismissed the idea of facing Jake Paul. Last year, Alvarez hinted he might consider such a bout after his professional career winds down. For now, though, it remains a distant possibility, with Alvarez focused on maintaining his legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats.
Despite the odds stacked against him, Jake Paul’s ability to generate buzz and intrigue is undeniable. Love him or hate him, he has successfully carved a niche in the sport, blending spectacle with surprising grit. As Mayweather pointed out, “He’s selling it, he’s making good money, and he’s entertaining.”
Whether Paul’s next chapter includes a clash with Canelo, Mayweather, or another high-profile opponent, one thing is clear: his journey in boxing continues to defy expectations. For now, though, the consensus remains that stepping into the ring with Canelo Alvarez might be a challenge too far-even for someone as audacious as Jake Paul.
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