Jake Paul’s next boxing challenge just got serious. The YouTuber-turned-fighter will face Julio César Chávez Jr. on June at Anaheim’s Honda Center in a 10-round cruiserweight clash, marking Paul’s second consecutive bout against a former world champion. Chávez Jr., son of Mexican boxing legend Julio César Chávez, brings a record of 54-6-1 with KOs but hasn’t held a major title since losing his WBC middleweight belt in.
The 39-year-old Chávez Jr. last fought in July, narrowly defeating ex-UFC fighter Uriah Hall by decision. His loss to Canelo Álvarez — where he lost every round — and a defeat by Anderson Silva (whom Paul later beat) have critics questioning his readiness. Paul, meanwhile, is coming off a safety-first win over 58-year-old Mike Tyson and boasts an 11-1 record, with his only loss to Tommy Fury in.
Chávez Jr. claims he’s “rejuvenated,” but his recent activity (one fight since 2021) and past drug-test failures loom large. The DAZN PPV event will use standard 10oz gloves, unlike Paul’s modified gear against Tyson. With Paul eyeing a “real belt” and Chávez Jr. desperate to revive his career, this crossroads fight could redefine both men’s trajectories.
