Following his unanimous decision victory over former middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, Jake Paul has set his sights on a potential clash with Anthony Joshua. Facing his most experienced boxing opponent to date, the YouTuber-turned-boxer took a significant risk against Chavez in front of a largely supportive Californian crowd. Despite intense ringside presence from Chavez`s famous father, Paul controlled the initial rounds and successfully weathered a late surge from his opponent.
After enduring several flurries in the tenth and final round, Paul celebrated on the ropes. The judges scored the bout 99-91, 98-92, and 97-93 in his favour, awarding him the unanimous decision.
Paul characterized his performance as `flawless`. He later stated at the post-fight press conference that a fight against two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua seemed `very likely` to happen in 2026. Despite not being a heavyweight himself, Paul expressed readiness for the challenge, calling Joshua an `insane fight`. He revealed that he and Joshua have been communicating, and Joshua is keen on making the fight happen, with discussions indicating it is `looking very likely for next year` (meaning 2026 based on the previous sentence).
Speaking further about the size difference, Paul referenced Deontay Wilder as an example, noting that Wilder fought and defeated heavier opponents despite weighing around 215 pounds. Paul believes “anything is possible” and reiterated his desire for the challenge that a fight with Joshua presents.
Chavez Warns Paul
Chavez also commented after the bout, offering a warning to Paul. He acknowledged Paul`s strength and skill in the early rounds but felt he tired later. Chavez stated he didn`t believe Paul was ready for champions yet, though acknowledged he was a “good fighter”. Reflecting on the fight, Chavez admitted losing the initial rounds and trying to rally later.
Chavez, who held the WBC middleweight title and defended it three times after winning it in 2011, hasn`t fought frequently since 2021. Despite not fully living up to his famous father`s legacy, he remains Paul`s most experienced and credible opponent in Paul`s 13-fight career.
On the undercard, former UFC standout Holly Holm, 43, made a successful return to boxing after a 12-year hiatus, dominating the previously undefeated Yolanda Guadalupe Vega Ochoa.
Murray Blackwood