Jake Paul continues to be a disruptive force in the boxing world. Following his recent unanimous decision victory over former champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Paul achieved a significant milestone: entry into the World Boxing Association`s (WBA) cruiserweight rankings at the number 14 spot.
This rapid ascent into the Top 15 did not sit well with everyone. Many established contenders voiced strong criticism to the WBA, questioning the validity of placing a relative newcomer like Paul so high on the list. In response to the outcry, the WBA has announced that Paul`s ranking is now `under review,` leaving his position uncertain and the subject of widespread debate within the sport.
Amidst this controversy and the chorus of critics, an unexpected voice has emerged in defense of Paul`s ranking: none other than the reigning WBA Cruiserweight World Champion, Gilberto `Zurdo` Ramirez.
Ramirez`s Surprising Stance
Despite Paul having previously directed some dismissive comments towards Ramirez, suggesting a future challenge, the champion offered a surprisingly positive assessment of Paul`s recent performance and subsequent ranking. Speaking publicly, Ramirez acknowledged Paul`s accomplishment in defeating a notable, albeit past-prime, former champion like Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
Ramirez gave credit to Paul for his performance, stating that he “made a statement” and “fought a world champion.” While recognizing Paul`s influence and success outside the traditional boxing hierarchy, Ramirez also subtly asserted his own position at the pinnacle of the division. He remarked that a potential fight between himself and Paul “won`t be a fair fight” because, in his words, he is “a champion, world-class champion, No. 1 ranking…” – a statement that carries a certain technical truth while perhaps also containing a hint of professional irony regarding the perceived gap in their respective boxing pedigrees.
Context and Future Prospects
It`s worth noting that Gilberto Ramirez is an accomplished fighter himself. On the same night Paul secured his win over Chavez Jr., Ramirez successfully defended his WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles by defeating Yuniel Dorticos by unanimous decision. This victory marked his fourth consecutive win since suffering his sole career defeat in late 2022, solidifying his status as a top-tier champion.
With Paul targeting a return to the ring in late 2024 and openly expressing his ambition to become a world champion, a clash with Gilberto Ramirez remains a distinct possibility. Ramirez himself noted that facing Paul could be part of his larger goal to unify the undisputed title, implying that Paul`s popularity could make such a fight commercially significant, regardless of the debate around his current ranking.
The situation highlights the unusual path Jake Paul is carving in boxing, capable of generating both significant backlash and unexpected endorsements from the sport`s elite. Whether his Top 15 status is temporary or permanent following the WBA`s review, it has certainly ignited discussion and added an intriguing potential matchup to the cruiserweight landscape.
