Three ‘Real Boxers’ Jake Paul Should Fight
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After a lackluster fight against the almost 60-year-old Mike Tyson, it’s time for Jake Paul to step up in competition. After the fight, there were several big-name boxers throwing their names as possible opponents. Some names include IBF Heavyweight Champion, Daniel Dubois, and Undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion, Artur Beterbiev. But, is Jake Paul is ready for that level of skill in the ring with true boxing rules?
If Paul wants to be taken seriously as a boxer, some changes need to happen. It’s time to scrap the fights against MMA stars, celebrities, and other social media creators. Here are three opponents he should consider:
Viddal Riley (11-0, 6 KOs)
Although Viddal Riley, started his boxing career at six years old and amassed an amateur record of 41–8 (19 KO’s). The 27-year-old fighter made his professional debut on November 30, 2018 and was previously promoted by Mayweather Promotions. He sparred the American NABF Cruiserweight Champion at the time, Andrew Tabiti. During this session, he impressed Jeff Mayweather and Amer Abdallah, with whom he signed a deal to turn professional. Also to add some intrigue to this possible fight, Riley trained KSI which has added to his publicity and exposure. Paul has stated he wanted to be a world champion and beating Riley, he could claim the English cruiserweight title.
Joe Smith Jr. (28-5, 22 KOs)
Joe Smith Jr. has been out of the ring for more than a year while coming off two losses. He is set to make his return to the ring in February 2025. The 35-year-old cruiserweight spent most of his career in or slightly above the 175-pound weight class. His biggest wins are Andrzej Fonfara and Bernard Hopkins. Smith lost his WBO title in a June 2022 unification match with Artur Beterbiev. Smith is a serviceable fighter with some big names on his resume. This could lead to fans believing Paul is serious about stepping up his competition.
Andre Ward (32-0, 16 KOs)
Andre Ward announced his retirement in September 2017. The former Unified Super Middleweight and Unified Light Heavyweight Champion recently said he’d answer the phone if Paul’s camp called. Ward would by far would be the most decorated opponent Paul would have faced to date. The Ring Magazine ranked Ward as the world’s best active boxer during his reign as Light Heavyweight Champion. The 38-year-old hasn’t fought since 2017. But, beating a retired Ward would certainly prove that he is showing immense improvement. Jake Paul thinks he could beat Canelo in a couple of years… So why not face a retired great like Andre Ward first?
After one of his wins, Jake Paul said, “This is the journey [to be a world champion] I’m on now, and I think before it’s been about business or MMA guys, big names. But now I’m taking the traditional boxing route.” Paul hasn’t announced who his next opponent will be yet. However, for the sake of his legacy and what he’s trying to accomplish, let’s hope it’s a current boxer. Preferably one with a name and skills.
Who do you think Jake Paul should fight next? Let us know in the comments.
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