Jake Paul secured a comfortable points victory over former world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at the Honda Centre in Anaheim, outboxing the Mexican veteran over ten largely uneventful rounds.
Chavez Jr, now 39, offered little resistance throughout the cruiserweight contest, spending much of the fight behind a high guard and rarely throwing punches.
His passive display left his father, the legendary Julio Cesar Chavez Sr, visibly disheartened at ringside.
Paul, 28, controlled the pace with consistent jabs and body shots, winning by unanimous decision with scores of 99–91, 98–92, and 97–93.
The win follows his controversial bout with Mike Tyson last year and adds to his growing, if divisive, boxing résumé.
“All the boos are words, but actions speak louder,” Paul told the jeering crowd. “He’s fought Canelo – I embarrassed him. Easy work.”
While Paul celebrated another win, the performance of Chavez Jr has renewed criticism over the quality of Paul’s opponents. Once a legitimate champion, Chavez Jr looked unmotivated and far from his former self.
Paul may continue to draw headlines, but doubts remain about his credibility in the sport. Until he faces a true test, the line between boxing and entertainment will remain blurred.
