Jake Paul Wins Unanimous Decision Against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
Jake Paul notched another victory on Saturday night at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, but it wasn’t a straightforward win. The 28-year-old secured a unanimous decision against former middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in the 10th round.
Chavez, who has a solid fan base, started the fight slowly despite the support from his corner. It was thought that facing the 39-year-old Chavez, with a record of 54-7-2, would be Paul’s toughest challenge so far, as he holds a record of 12-1 with 7 KOs.
This perception, however, didn’t hold up early on. Chavez fought cautiously and seemed to lack aggression, even with his father’s vocal support at ringside.
On the other hand, Paul maintained control of the ring, landing enough significant hits, especially in the earlier rounds.
Logan Paul, Jake’s brother and a well-known YouTuber and WWE star, was present to cheer following the victory.
While Chavez struggled to throw punches in the first four rounds, he found his rhythm in the sixth round and showcased some of the skills from his lengthy boxing career during the ninth round.
It wasn’t enough to claim victory, though. Paul celebrated by jumping on the ropes while absorbing some cheers from the crowd at the end of the fight.
“Every boos are awards,” Paul remarked after the match, reflecting on his performance. “I think I only got hit around 10 times.” The judges scored it 99-91, 98-92, and 97-93, with the Associated Press also having Paul ahead at 97-93.
“I thought I lost the first five rounds, so I tried to win the final round,” Chavez acknowledged, having fought only once since 2021. Despite previously winning the WBC middleweight title in 2011 and defending it three times, he is often criticized for not reaching his full potential and not adding significantly to his father’s legacy.
Still, Chavez proved to be a notable opponent for Paul, who is five years into his unusual boxing career.
Earlier, Paul claimed victory against 58-year-old Mike Tyson in November. His only loss came at the hands of Tommy Fury in February 2023, though his celebrity status often overshadows his boxing skills.
This victory opens doors for Paul to pursue more mainstream matchups in the boxing sphere.
“I understand there’s a long line for opponents,” Paul stated when asked about his next fight. “I’ll get tickets.” He downplayed any potential challenge from fighter Gilbert “Zurdo” Ramirez.
In other bouts around the event, former UFC fighter Holly Holm, 43, made a return to boxing after a 12-year absence and claimed victory over the previously undefeated Yolanda Guadalupe Vega Ochoa.
New Jersey welterweight Julian Rodriguez delivered an electrifying performance, stunning previously unbeaten Vias Griffin with a left hand in the 10th round, knocking Griffin back onto the ropes for a brief respite.
