The boxing world is in an uproar as YouTuber-turned-fighter Jake Paul prepares to step into the ring with heavyweight legend Anthony Joshua. This controversial match-up has sparked heated debates, with heavyweight contender Jermaine Franklin leading the charge against Paul's involvement.
Franklin, who went the distance with Joshua in 2023 and has impressive wins over Ivan Dychko and Jerry Forrest, is set to face the rising heavyweight star Moses Itauma in January. He believes that Paul's presence in the sport is a 'mockery' and an unnecessary distraction.
"It's rubbish, to be honest," Franklin told Sky Sports. "I understand it's about money, but boxing needs to draw a line. Jake Paul brings money, but at what cost?"
Paul, a cruiserweight in the early stages of his professional career, has fought notable opponents like Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., a former middleweight champion, but has also suffered defeats, including one to Tommy Fury. His only heavyweight fight was against the legendary Mike Tyson, then 58 years old, which drew significant attention.
However, Franklin argues that Paul has never faced an opponent like Joshua, a London 2012 Olympic gold medalist and a two-time unified world heavyweight champion. "He's in a different league," Franklin said. "This is a step too far."
The upcoming fight has a unique catchweight rule, with Joshua's weight capped at 245 lbs. Franklin finds this unusual for a heavyweight bout and believes it could damage Joshua's reputation. "It's a risk for Joshua's legacy," he added.
"Paul needs to understand that boxing is a serious sport. You can't just walk in and make a mockery of it. He might bring attention, but at what cost to the sport's integrity?"
Franklin also expressed his admiration for Paul's management of other fighters, like Amanda Serrano, but emphasized that Paul himself needs to earn respect as a boxer through his actions.
"I'm excited for my fight with Itauma. I plan to give him the toughest fight of his career. I know what it takes to go the distance, and I'll be ready to push him to his limits."
Franklin promises a 'big shock' for Itauma, and believes this fight will be a turning point in his career. "I'm going to show everyone what I'm capable of. It's going to be an exciting fight, and I can't wait to prove myself."
What do you think about Jake Paul's involvement in boxing? Is it a necessary step to bring attention to the sport, or does it undermine its integrity? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
