During International Fight Week, Jake Paul’s name was searched more on Google than UFC 317 (Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira), according to data released by his promoter, Most Valuable Promotions (mmamania.com, essentiallysports.com, bjpenn.com).
Why he outperformed UFC 317 in searches
The timing overlap between both events (June 28) highlighted the influencer’s pull. While Topuria captured the lightweight belt with a lightning-fast knockout, Paul dominated Julio César Chávez Jr. via unanimous decision, surprisingly generating more search interest—according to MVP.
However, fans were quick to point out that searches don’t always equal real viewership:
“Nobody was watching your fight and just searched your name…”
(bjpenn.com, mmamania.com)
WBA ranking and real chance at a world title
The victory improved Paul’s record to 12‑1 (7 KOs), and he entered the WBA rankings at No. 14, making him eligible to challenge for the cruiserweight world title—potentially against Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramirez (thesun.co.uk, reuters.com).
Despite the controversy—some critics called the ranking a “joke” (talksport.com)—Paul’s career trajectory is now aligned with a real shot at becoming a world champion.
Online controversy: fans doubt the “numbers”
Beyond the skepticism about whether online buzz equals true audience, boxing purists also question whether Paul deserves such spotlight. Even so, his team uses these numbers strategically as bargaining chips (essentiallysports.com, talksport.com).
The meaning of “celebrity boxing” for the sport
Jake Paul is the most emblematic face of the phenomenon blending boxing, entertainment, and digital influence. His journey—from YouTuber to a ranked athlete on the brink of a title shot—resonates with new audiences, opens streaming opportunities, and fuels debates about meritocracy in professional sports.
Jake Paul’s next steps
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A rematch with Tommy Fury is under negotiation (with an offer reportedly around $5 million) (essentiallysports.com)
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Surrounded by controversy, he is now seeking higher-level opponents
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With an established ranking, he is targeting a real title fight, possibly in 2025
Jake Paul is much more than a promising internet star: he backs up his numbers with wins and rankings and could become the first influencer to capture a professional boxing world title. If he succeeds in the ring and in marketing, his reputation might become as valuable as his athletic legacy.
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