Jake Paul's Upcoming Combatants: Potential Contenders Prepared to Square Off Against the YouTube Boxer Next
In the world of professional boxing, Jake Paul continues to make waves. The YouTube sensation, who started as a 16-year-old prankster, has now set his sights on becoming the greatest boxer in history.
Last year, Paul defeated Julio César Chávez Jr. via unanimous decision, extending his winning streak to six fights. The bout, held at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, marked a significant milestone in Paul's career.
Looking forward, Paul's most probable upcoming challenge is against heavyweight star Anthony Joshua in 2026. This high-profile fight is currently under discussion, with Paul expressing his eagerness to take on the challenge despite not being a natural heavyweight.
Besides Joshua, another realistic potential opponent for Paul could be Badou Jack, the WBC cruiserweight champion. Jack is seen as a credible and feasible next step if Paul aims to fight for a world title in the cruiserweight division. However, Paul seems focused on the bigger fight with Joshua next.
Starting his boxing journey in 2018, Paul has fought against conventional boxers, primarily in non-pay-per-view fights, to build up a resume to be taken seriously as a professional boxer. His victory against former UFC champion Tyron Woodley in 2021, via knockout in the sixth round, was a testament to his growing skills.
Paul's loss to Tommy Fury via split decision in January 2023 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, was a setback, but he overhauled his coaching team to prioritize conventional boxing skills in his training regime. BJ Flores became Paul's head coach, leading him to wins against former UFC fighter Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, and Anderson Silva.
The fight between Paul and boxing legend Mike Tyson, held in November 2024 at AT&T Stadium, attracted 90,000 fans and 65 million viewers worldwide. Paul won the bout via unanimous decision, a moment that solidified his position in the boxing world.
The boxing establishment is watching Paul's progression as a serious boxer, with his next opponent crucial for his quest to dominate boxing. Paul has expressed his willingness to make less money in fights to achieve his ultimate goal of becoming the greatest story in boxing history.
Significant promoters like Eddie Hearn, Frank Warren, and Bob Arum are paying attention to Jake Paul's profile. Despite some initial criticism, Paul's victories against seasoned boxers like Andre August, Ryan Bourland, and Tyron Woodley have started to earn him credibility in the eyes of the boxing establishment.
As Paul moves forward in his boxing career, one thing is clear - his determination to become a formidable force in the boxing world is unwavering. The outcome of his next fight will be pivotal in defining his legacy in the sport.
Jake Paul, not wanting to limit his aspirations, has expressed interest in venturing into sports-analysis, aiming to provide his insights on casino games and sports, similar to his analysis of boxing matches on his blog.
If Jake Paul manages to defeat Anthony Joshua in the anticipated 2026 heavyweight fight, he may consider entering the world of boxing promotion, drawing upon Badou Jack's success as a boxer and a promoter in the cruiserweight division, where he holds the WBC title.
