Jake Paul’s Next Steps: A Roadmap to Championship Glory
The Significant Win Over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
In a landmark fight, Jake Paul secured a unanimous decision victory over former WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on June 29, 2025. This win marked a vital milestone in Paul’s career, propelling him closer to his aspirations of becoming a world champion. At just 28 years old, Paul (12-1, 7 KOs) has indicated his serious intentions in the boxing arena, despite having limited experience in professional boxing.
While the victory over Chavez was significant, it also raised questions about the level of competition Paul has faced throughout his career. So far, his opponents have included former MMA fighters, boxing journeymen, a fellow YouTuber, and even a retired NBA player. The skepticism surrounding the caliber of his opponents cannot be overlooked, especially given that Chavez, while experienced, has seen better days and struggled to stay competitive. Hence, Paul’s journey toward championship gold is just beginning.
Potential Championship Fights: Who’s Next?
With his sights firmly set on a cruiserweight title, Paul has a range of formidable opponents to consider. The landscape of the cruiserweight division is dotted with seasoned fighters like Badou Jack, Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez, and Jai Opetaia, each presenting unique challenges.
1. Badou Jack
Badou Jack, the WBC champion since early 2023, could be the most realistic opponent for Paul. Although Jack is 41 years old, he remains competitive and has only made one successful title defense so far. This potential matchup could occur as early as the end of 2025.
Jack’s extensive experience would undoubtedly present a substantial challenge for Paul, but his reach advantage and ability to adapt to the size of cruiserweights make him a manageable option. This fight isn’t simply a stepping stone but a genuine opportunity for Paul to claim a world championship.
2. Gilberto "Zurdo" Ramirez
Ramirez, currently undefeated in the cruiserweight division, has proven to be a tough competitor. After a hard-fought decision win over Yuniel Dorticos, he’s already considered a serious contender in the division.
Despite his slow start in the last fight, Ramirez demonstrated exceptional skill and adaptability. Even though he seems more focused on a unification bout with Jai Opetaia, his name remains on the list of potential opponents for Paul. A matchup with Ramirez would be risky, especially since he possesses both size and experience advantage. However, with the WBA showing interest in ranking Paul, the prospect is not entirely out of reach.
3. Jai Opetaia
Jai Opetaia, arguably one of the best in the cruiserweight class, is another name that looms large. Known for his speed and power, he represents a serious challenge for any contender. Currently, however, the IBF has not expressed any interest in ranking Paul, meaning a fight with Opetaia could be on a distant horizon.
Though Opetaia stands as the most significant obstacle, his lower popularity in American markets presents a risk-versus-reward dilemma for Paul. Moving up to face someone of Opetaia’s caliber would require further seasoning for Paul, as he would be facing one of the toughest tests of his career.
Rematch with Tommy Fury: A Fan Favorite
A potential rematch with Tommy Fury appears to be the most immediate and realistic option. The storyline surrounding these two fighters, compounded by their previous bout, continues to draw interest from fans and media alike. Paul has notably improved since his first loss to Fury, and the time seems ripe for retribution.
Negotiations could prove challenging, as Fury’s asking price was previously deemed too high. However, given that he currently finds himself limited in lucrative fights, a rematch could provide both fighters with a significant payday and a compelling narrative for fans.
The Path Forward
Jake Paul’s aspirations of championship glory are clearer than ever following his win against Chavez Jr. As Paul continues to develop his skills and accumulate experience within the ring, the future holds numerous exciting opportunities. The choices he makes in selecting his next opponents will significantly shape not only his career but also the narrative surrounding him in the world of boxing. Whether he faces established champions or steps back into the ring with a familiar foe like Tommy Fury, each fight will be pivotal in carving out his legacy in this competitive sport.
