By James Evans
Jake Paul’s recent entry into the WBA world rankings at No. 14 could come under threat following his victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. Despite his triumph in the fight, where the 28 year old ‘Problem Child’ showed dominance from the get-go, he may end up losing his newly-acquired cruiserweight ranking. After swift inclusion in the No.14 spot, which places him just shy of rivals like former champion Chris Billam-Smith and KO artist Craig Parker, Paul potentially faces a setback with the WBA to review his standing. They released an official statement saying: “Due to heavy criticism and outrage from other ranked contenders, the WBA will review Jake Paul’s cruiserweight ranking at their upcoming European convention in Madrid – which takes place from July 15-18,” reports All Out Fighting . The decision follows his victory against Chavez Jr. who, despite being a former middleweight champion, has not had a significant win since 2012 and was unranked as a cruiserweight. Critics point out that Paul has not beaten a ranked fighter yet, with his only nod to such a feat being his exhibition “fight” with the aged Mike Tyson . Parker was left reeling from the latest WBA rankings, expressing his shock in an interview with All Out Fighting : “I was getting up in the morning and the first thing I saw that popped up on my news feed was ‘ Jake Paul ranked No. 14 in the WBA.’ I said ‘that cannot be true?’ Because I am ranked 14th by the WBA. It really felt like a low blow and a slap to the face. I really felt disgusted,” he fumed. He continued, venting his frustration about Jake Paul’s recognition: “For this guy (Paul) to come in and be recognised in the WBA by a sanctioned body and then turn around and talking about fighting for a world title… he is nowhere close to even thinking about being a world champion.” Parker also made a bold prediction about a potential bout with Paul, stating confidently: “Four rounds. I have got to give him a couple of rounds because he is going to be in shape. But if I hit him in the chin, maybe the first round.” Parker further added, “But all the stuff with Jake Paul has come to a point where he knocked on my door… and I am ready to end the whole Jake Paul shenanigans. He has been putting out a lot of crap and I am ready to flush it. I am ready to end it all. If he wants to continue to box after me and him… if he is able to or if he wants to, that is all up to him. He can choose his own destiny.”