Manny Pacquiao delivers blunt verdict on Jake Paul’s boxing credentials before Chavez Jr. fight

Jake Paul’s return to the ring is sparking debates across the boxing world—and not all voices are offering praise. With his next bout scheduled for late June against former world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., the YouTuber-turned-boxer once again finds himself at the center of a legitimacy conversation.

While fans and critics remain divided on Paul’s standing in the sport, one of boxing’s most respected icons has weighed in with a verdict that leaves little room for interpretation. Manny Pacquiao, the only eight-division champion in history, shared his unfiltered thoughts during a recent interview—and his words carry weight.

As Paul eyes bigger names and championship dreams, the Filipino legend made it clear that defeating Chavez Jr. won’t necessarily earn him a place among boxing’s elite.

Paul vs. Chavez Jr.: A test of credibility

The highly anticipated bout will take place on Saturday, June 28, at the Honda Center in Anaheim, marking Jake Paul’s first fight since his controversial win over Iron Mike Tyson. That bout, which drew both record viewership and criticism, ended with Paul winning on points after eight rounds against the 58-year-old legend.

Jake Paul speaks during a press conference at The Avalon on May 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)

Now, Paul faces Chavez Jr., a former WBC middleweight champion whose career has struggled to find consistency since his title reign ended in 2012. Despite his mixed record in recent years, Chavez Jr. presents a more conventional boxing test for Paul—one that could either reinforce his momentum or expose his limits.

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But in Pacquiao’s view, even a victory here won’t change the narrative. “It’s up to the fans how they analyze it and how they judge it, but I don’t think so,” he said when asked if beating Chavez Jr. would make Paul a legitimate contender, according to an interview with Fight Hub TV.

Pacquiao’s perspective carries weight

Pacquiao’s stance resonates deeply within the boxing community. Known for facing elite opponents across weight divisions, his journey from poverty in the Philippines to global superstardom is a blueprint for what boxing purists consider true legitimacy. From that lens, Paul’s trajectory—rooted in celebrity and spectacle—falls short.

That said, Pacquiao left the final judgment to the public, signaling that perception in the modern fight game isn’t always dictated by titles alone. Yet his tone was clear: “I don’t think so.”

What’s next for Jake Paul?

Should Paul secure a win over Chavez Jr., his options open up significantly. Talks have reportedly begun for a potential catchweight bout with Gervonta Davis, the reigning WBA lightweight champion, in what would be a dramatic crossover clash.

Another rumored opponent is Canelo Alvarez, who had previously been linked to a blockbuster matchup with Paul. However, that possibility dimmed when Canelo shifted focus to a September showdown with Terence Crawford, who is aiming to become a three-division undisputed champion.

Paul’s ambitions are growing, but so is the scrutiny. As Pacquiao’s words echo through the boxing world, the pressure is now on Paul not just to win—but to convince.