ANAHEIM, CA — In a highly anticipated cruiserweight bout at the Honda Center on June 28, 2025, Jake Paul secured a unanimous decision victory over former WBC middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr. The fight, broadcast live on DAZN Pay-Per-View, marked Paul’s first return to the ring since his controversial win over Mike Tyson in November 2024.
A Dominant Performance
Paul, 28, showcased his dominance early, winning nine of the ten rounds according to judges’ scorecards of 99-91, 98-92, and 97-93. He landed 140 punches out of 482 thrown, while Chávez Jr., 39, managed 61 from 154 attempts. Notably, Chávez Jr. threw only four punches in the first round and landed none, indicating a lackluster start that set the tone for the bout.
Despite a brief resurgence in the ninth round, where Chávez Jr. landed a solid uppercut and right hook, Paul’s early lead proved insurmountable. The victory improved Paul’s professional record to 12-1, further solidifying his presence in the boxing world.
Financial Disparities and Controversies
Interestingly, despite the loss, Chávez Jr. earned a base purse of $750,000, significantly higher than Paul’s $300,000. These figures exclude potential earnings from pay-per-view sales and sponsorships.
The fight was not without controversy. Critics, including media personality Piers Morgan, labeled the bout a “boring staged farce,” questioning the legitimacy of the competition and Paul’s impact on the sport. Social media buzzed with speculation about the fight’s authenticity, with some suggesting Chávez Jr. participated merely for the paycheck.
Paul’s Post-Fight Ambitions
Undeterred by criticism, Paul expressed his commitment to pursuing a legitimate boxing career. In a post-fight interview, he stated, “I beat your boy. He is a warrior, but so am I. I think I did great against a former world champion who has never been stopped, and I dominated him.”
Looking ahead, Paul has set his sights on facing top-tier opponents, including WBC cruiserweight champion Badou Jack, Anthony Joshua, and Gervonta Davis. His ambition is to secure a world title, aiming to transition from a social media personality to a recognized professional boxer.
Chávez Jr.’s Future in Question
For Chávez Jr., the loss adds to a series of setbacks in a career marked by inconsistency. Once a promising champion, his recent performances have drawn criticism, and his future in the sport remains uncertain. Despite the defeat, Chávez Jr. expressed a desire to continue fighting, though it’s unclear what opportunities lie ahead.
Event Highlights
The event also featured notable bouts, including Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez defending his WBA and WBO cruiserweight titles against Yuniel Dorticos, and Holly Holm making a successful return to boxing with a victory over Yolanda Vega.
As Paul continues to challenge established fighters and seek legitimacy in the boxing world, his journey remains a topic of debate among fans and critics alike.
