Jake Paul could potentially fight for not just one, but two world titles in his upcoming bout, following a face-off with Zurdo Ramirez on Saturday night.
The polarizing social media personality turned boxer had to overcome a strong late rally from former middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. to secure arguably the most difficult victory of his professional boxing career. Meanwhile, in the night`s co-main event, Ramirez managed a hard-fought 12-round decision win against 39-year-old Yuniel Dorticos.
Although the idea of Paul competing for a world title after only 13 fights might seem far-fetched, he reportedly earned a ranking from the WBA, with the WBC expected to follow suit. This development positions him as a legitimate contender for Ramirez’s world championship.
Jake Paul faces off with Zurdo Ramirez after Julio Cesar Chavez Jr win
After his win over Chavez Jr., Jake Paul headed backstage to meet the press alongside Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian. Within minutes of Paul starting to answer questions, WBA and WBO champion Gilberto ‘Zurdo’ Ramirez arrived.
Following a question-and-answer session lasting approximately 20 minutes, Paul stepped off the stage, and Ramirez prepared to speak to the media. However, before they parted ways, Bidarian prompted the two fighters to face off for the benefit of the global press corps, who were quick to capture the moment with their cameras.
The face-off was notably intense. Paul told the champion that he looked slow during his win against Dorticos, which occurred just before Paul made his ring walk. Ramirez remained silent, seemingly finding Paul’s attempts at trash talk amusing.
Paul`s professional record is currently listed as 12-1; he had only one white-collar amateur fight before turning professional in 2020. Despite this limited experience, his recent ten-round fight and victory over former WBC titleholder Chavez Jr. could significantly advance him towards a world title opportunity.
Jake Paul called out potential opponents after Chavez victory
Immediately after his win, Paul took to the microphone to provoke the crowd, insisting his victory was easy despite a chorus of boos. He then proceeded to name several potential opponents from various levels of the sport.
“It was flawless,” Paul commented in his post-fight interview. “I think I only got hit about 10 times. He just survived, and I believe I did great. Going 10 rounds against a former world champion who has never been stopped… He`s been in there with Canelo and others, and I handled him like that.”
He continued, “I want tougher fighters, and I want to become a world champion. ‘Zurdo’ [Ramirez] looked slow tonight. That’s easy work. I want Badou Jack. Tommy Fury can get it too. Stop running from me, Tommy.”
