Andre Ward has shared his thoughts on Jake Paul’s chances of going on to win a world title.
Paul made his return to the ring on June 28 when he defeated Mexico’s former WBC middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr via unanimous decision at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
‘The Problem Child’ dominated the contest from the opening bell, facing little-to-no threat from 39-year-old Chavez, who has received heavy criticism for what was an underwhelming performance against the YouTube star.
As he sets his sights on a potential world title shot in the near future, former unified super-middleweight and light-heavyweight champion Ward has spoken out and weighed in on Paul’s chances of becoming a world champion.
In an interview with Seconds Out, Ward claimed that ‘anything is possible’ when it comes to Paul winning a legitimate belt, however his opinion is more down to the state of the sport rather than the young man’s ability.
“I mean, with these sanctioning bodies these days… anything is possible.
“You know, I think Jake Paul, if he’s going to be considered a real fighter, he’s got to pay his dues like everybody else, I don’t think there should be no handouts or nothing like that, in terms of getting him in position.
“I’m not a Jake Paul hater, if he can have a whole other fan base and bring them to boxing and sell out arena’s, respect. And I also respect the fact that he is in the gym.”
Paul has already made call-outs to reigning WBA and WBO cruiserweight champion Gilberto Ramirez and WBC king Badou Jack, although it remains to be seen whether the 28-year-old’s wish will be granted.