Jake Paul is set to face former WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on June 28 at Honda Center in Anaheim, California. This fight is a key moment in Paul’s journey towards a world championship. Most Valuable Promotions, Paul’s promotional company, announced the details of this exciting matchup on ESPN.
The ten-round bout will take place at a 200-pound weight limit and will be available on DAZN pay-per-view. Paul, who boasts an 11-1 record with 7 KOs, sees this as another stepping stone in his professional boxing career. He recently stated, “Every fight since my debut has been about becoming a world champion. I just defeated a top contender, and now I’m going against a former champion.”
Chavez Jr., with a record of 54-6-1, represents a significant challenge for Paul. Although Chavez has faced ups and downs in his career, he still carries the legacy of his famous father, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr. In his own words, Chavez Jr. feels he’s ready to showcase his skills after personal struggles. He is eager to regain his former glory: “I will show what I can do now that everything is in the right place in my life—mentally and physically,” he said.
Historically, Chavez Jr. was once a top fighter, but in recent years, his career has been erratic. Since losing his WBC title in 2012, he has had a mixed record, including a notable win and a loss to MMA fighter Anderson Silva. His last fight was a victory against Uriah Hall in July 2024. Despite having lost confidence and facing criticism, Chavez is aiming to turn his career around.
The co-main event will see unified cruiserweight champion Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez defending his titles against former champion Yuniel Dorticos. Ramirez, who has a record of 47-1 with 30 KOs, is riding high after moving up from super middleweight. Dorticos, with a record of 27-2, is on a winning streak and eager to reclaim his status.
Both Paul and Ramirez have their eyes on a larger audience. Oscar De La Hoya, chairman of Golden Boy Promotions, highlighted their goal of putting on exciting boxing events that appeal to fans. This approach has drawn attention as fans look forward to high-profile encounters amidst a landscape defined by star power and vibrant personalities.
As Paul continues to build his boxing legacy, reactions from fans and critics remain mixed. Many followers on social media are intrigued by his rise in the boxing world, with debates about his ability and authenticity. In a sport where history and tradition hold weight, his approach challenges the norms.
In conclusion, this matchup between Paul and Chavez Jr. is a not only a test for both fighters but also a reflection of the evolving landscape of boxing. With former champions and rising stars sharing the ring, the excitement is palpable as fans await this electrifying fight.
For more in-depth coverage on upcoming boxing events, you can check out ESPN.