Jake Paul gets challenge from boxing legend Roy Jones Jr. after cruiserweight ranking shakes up division

Jake Paul’s rise through the boxing ranks continues to stir the sport’s elite. After defeating Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on Saturday night, the YouTuber-turned-fighter broke into the WBA’s top 15 cruiserweight rankings, making him officially eligible to challenge for a world title. The development has sparked attention across the boxing world — including from a true legend.

Roy Jones Jr., one of boxing’s all-time greats and a former multi-weight world champion, has now publicly expressed his desire to fight Paul. The matchup, however, seems more dream than reality for now, especially given Paul’s career trajectory and past reluctance to entertain bouts perceived as sideshow attractions.

Jones, who has remained active well into his fifties and last drew headlines for his 2020 exhibition with Mike Tyson, didn’t hold back in voicing his interest. Speaking at the IBA convention, he outlined a scenario where he and Paul could clash for a vacant cruiserweight belt — a storyline that would certainly generate headlines.

Is Roy Jones Jr. serious about a Jake Paul fight?

“Jake Paul wants that cruiserweight, real world title. Wow… Somebody vacates and they fight for a vacant world cruiserweight title,” Jones said. “I never got the real cruiserweight world title. Jake Paul is now in that position. That would be thrilling.”

Roy Jones Jr. looks on during the Chris Eubank Jr v Liam Smith Media workout at The Trafford Centre on January 18, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

While Jones may have said it with a touch of promoter’s flair, his comments reflect the growing belief that Paul’s presence in boxing is no longer a gimmick — it’s a business and competition opportunity for real fighters.

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Paul, who now holds a 10-1 record, earned the WBA ranking after a series of professional victories. Wins over seasoned opponents such as Ryan Bourland (17-2) and Andre August (10-1-1) set the stage, but it was his dominant performance against Chavez Jr. that solidified his standing.

Following the announcement, Paul took to social media to share his thoughts: “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… Being a world champion is my desired ultimate destination.”

Whether that path leads to a title bout — or an unlikely showdown with a legend like Roy Jones Jr. — remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: Jake Paul is forcing the boxing world to take notice.