Jake Paul solidified his boxing credentials with a unanimous decision victory over Julio César Chávez Jr., earning a No. 14 ranking in the WBA cruiserweight division. Now eligible for a title shot, the former YouTube star is closer to his world champion dream.
At the Honda Centre in Anaheim, Jake Paul dominated Chávez Jr. over 10 rounds, winning unanimously (99-91, 98-92, 97-93). The victory improved his record to 12-1 with seven knockouts. Despite Chávez Jr.’s faded form at 39, with only two fights in three years, Paul’s performance showcased his discipline and power, outpacing the former middleweight champion, who appeared fatigued.
I’ve worked hard to get here but there is nothing to celebrate. Long road ahead and I’m more committed to it every single day.
I may veer off the path now and again, but being a world champion is my desired ultimate destination.
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) July 1, 2025The World Boxing Association promptly ranked Paul 14th in the cruiserweight division, just ahead of undefeated American Craig Parker (20-0) and behind Italy’s Giovanni Cristian Scuderi (12-0). This ranking, confirmed by WBA President Gilberto Mendoza, positions Paul for a potential title fight against champion Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez, who defended his belt against Yuniel Dorticos on the same night. Paul’s rise signals his transition from novelty to contender.
Critics highlight Paul’s opponents, averaging 39 years old, including aging stars like Mike Tyson (58) and Chávez Jr. His résumé faces scrutiny, but his 12-1 record proves his skill. Paul declared, “I want tougher fighters. I want to be a world champion,” eyeing Ramírez or other contenders. A title fight promises a massive payday due to Paul’s popularity, but tougher tests like Scuderi or top heavyweights loom as challenges.
Jake Paul has officially entered the WBA cruiserweight rankings at No. 14 following his win over Julio César Chávez Jr., making him eligible for a shot at the world title. pic.twitter.com/LUmjt9q606
— No Jumper (@nojumper) July 1, 2025Jake Paul’s WBA ranking marks a pivotal moment in his boxing journey, bridging the line between entertainment and sport. His potential title shot could redefine the landscape of boxing, drawing massive audiences while fueling debates about legitimacy. As he targets Ramírez, the fight’s outcome will shape his legacy and the sport’s evolving narrative, captivating fans globally.
WBA Top 15 Ranking 2025
| Rank | Name | Record |
|---|---|---|
| Champion | Gilberto Ramírez | 48-1 |
| 1 | Leonardo Mosquea | 17-0 |
| 2 | Lenar Perez | 15-0 |
| 3 | Aloys Youmbi | 10-1 |
| 4 | Mike Peres | 31-3-1 |
| 5 | Arsen Goulamirian | 27-1 |
| 6 | Yuniel Dorticos | 27-3 |
| 7 | Umar Salamov | 30-2 |
| 8 | Chris Billam-Smith | 21-2 |
| 9 | Roman Frees | 23-1 |
| 10 | Aleksei Egorov | 12-3 |
| 11 | Aleksei Papin | 18-1 |
| 12 | Giovanni Cristian Scuderi | 12-0 |
| 13 | Jake Paul | 12-1 |
| 14 | Craig Parker | 20-0 |
