JAKE PAUL has gone from skinny Disney star to cruiserweight boxing contender in the short space of under six years.
The American starred in two series of TV show Bizaardvark, first airing on 2017 after shooting to fame on social media app Vine.
And after a successful career as one of the biggest YouTubers in the world, in 2018 Paul began his boxing journey.
Now after nearly five years and just six professional bouts, he is one of the richest fighters on the planet.
In 2021, he was behind only Tyson Fury, 34, and Canelo Alvarez, 32, in the list of highest-paid boxers.
And next Sunday, in Saudi Arabia, he faces Fury’s younger brother Tommy in their rescheduled celebrity grudge match.
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The eight-round pay-per-view bout is scheduled for 185lb or 13st 2lb, the lightest weight in Paul’s career.
He has largely campaigned at 190lb, 13st 7lb, while following a gruelling training regime.
Paul, 26, was a high-school wrestler, so has always maintained a good physique even during his days on the small screen.
But he has conditioned himself into fighting shape now, packing on the muscle.
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Paul has beaten ex-MMA champions in Ben Askren, 38, Tyron Woodley, 40, and Anderson Silva, 47.
But Tommy, 23, will be the first opponent he has faced with a recognised boxing record.
And the stakes have been raised after the WBC announced Paul will receive a world ranking if he wins.
A ranking within the organisation would pave the way for him to sensationally challenge for a championship title.
It means Paul could very well complete his transition from children’s TV actor to world title challenger.
Source: Boxing - thesun.co.uk
