Jake Paul’s boxing career should end, but his promotions deserve the spotlight
Jake Paul has disrupted the boxing world, blending entertainment with spectacle. While his days in the ring have likely reached their peak, his promotional efforts hold tremendous value for the sport. Here’s why it’s time to move on from Jake Paul the boxer and focus on Jake Paul the promoter.
A Spectacle Past Its Prime
From fighting YouTubers to a 58-year-old Mike Tyson, Jake Paul’s matchmaking has prioritized hype over legitimate competition. His recent victory against Tyson epitomized this trend—a fight fueled by nostalgia rather than skill.
Paul’s boxing resume includes wins over retired MMA fighters and low-level boxers. His only encounter with a professional boxer ended in a narrow loss, exposing his limits. At this point, any future bouts, whether against celebrities or club-level fighters, would only dilute his carefully crafted narrative. For true boxing fans, his in-ring story has run its course.
Jake Paul’s Business Genius
While Jake Paul’s boxing career may be winding down, his promotional ventures through Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) have been revolutionary. He has elevated women’s boxing to unprecedented heights, particularly by boosting Amanda Serrano’s profile. Under Paul’s guidance, Serrano achieved mainstream recognition and participated in two historic bouts against Katie Taylor.
Paul’s events also deliver unmatched viewership. His fight with Tyson reportedly attracted 125 million viewers globally on Netflix, while Taylor-Serrano II drew 74 million live viewers. Even if just 1% of those new viewers become lifelong boxing fans, the sport stands to gain hundreds of thousands of new followers.
Building the Future of Boxing
Paul’s promotional efforts extend beyond marquee events. Through his Most Valuable Prospects series, he has created opportunities for young fighters to showcase their talent. By investing in the sport’s future, he is fostering a new generation of competitors while providing fans with authentic action.
His advocacy also spans multiple domains. As “head of fighter advocacy” for the Professional Fighters League, Paul champions better revenue sharing for MMA fighters. He’s also founded a nonprofit to combat bullying, showcasing his ability to contribute positively beyond the ring.
Time to Focus on Promotions, Not Fighting
Jake Paul’s time as a boxer is over. His fights, though entertaining, no longer serve the sport. However, his legacy as a promoter is just beginning. By focusing on uplifting fighters, growing audiences, and supporting women’s boxing, Paul has the chance to leave an indelible mark on the sport.
For the good of boxing, it’s time to stop following Jake Paul’s fights—but not his promotions. His work behind the scenes has the potential to transform the sport for years to come.