BOXING
Boxing

'You are still average': Eddie Hearn to Jake Paul as Mike Tyson fight gets closer

The boxing promoter's blunt assessment of Paul's skills resurfaces as the YouTuber-turned-boxer faces off against Tyson on November 15

Eddie Hearn's Criticism Looms Over Jake Paul's Boxing Journey Ahead of...
Eddie Hearn's Criticism Looms Over Jake Paul's Boxing Journey Ahead of Tyson Fight(AP Photo/Ian Walton)LAPRESSE

In the fast-evolving world of boxing, where social media stars have stormed into the spotlight, Jake Paul has carved out a controversial yet successful niche for himself. But while Paul's foray into the boxing world has brought millions of new eyes to the sport, not everyone is convinced of his legitimacy. One of the most vocal critics is boxing promoterEddie Hearn, whose sharp critique of Paul's skills continues to haunt the YouTuber-turned-boxer.

It all began two years ago, shortly after Jake Paul's professional debut against fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib. In a candid conversation on DAZN, Hearn didn't hold back, calling Paul "average" in the ring. Though Paul tried to defend himself, Hearn's blunt assessment has lingered, casting a shadow over Paul's rising career. And now, as Paul prepares for his fight against Mike Tyson, the sting of Hearn's words is more relevant than ever.

In the viral video clip that resurfaced recently, Paul is visibly frustrated by Hearn's initial judgment. "You called me average after one minute of my first professional fight," Paul said, defending his abilities. But Hearn, never one to sugarcoat, quickly doubled down."You're still average," he replied, a statement that has since defined much of the skepticism surrounding Paul's career.

While Paul has racked up victories against names like Ben Askren and Anderson Silva, his opponents' credentials have always been a topic of debate. Many of Paul's most notable wins have come against MMA fighters well past their prime, which has done little to sway those who, like Hearn, question whether Paul belongs in the boxing elite.

Jake Paul seeks redemption after Eddie Hearn's "average" critique and Tommy Fury defeat

For Hearn, the critique wasn't personal, but rather a matter of expertise. "I don't know where you might go,"he told Paul, acknowledging that his future could hold promise but maintaining his stance that, for now, Paul's boxing prowess is "average." In the unforgiving world of boxing, where champions are made through grit and skill, being labeled average can be a tough pill to swallow.

Jake Paul's one chance to silence critics like Hearn came earlier this year in his match against Tommy Fury, a legitimate boxer in his prime. But Paul fell short, losing by split decision, which only added fuel to the arguments that Paul has yet to prove himself against real competition. With the bout against Mike Tyson, Paul has a new opportunity to change the narrative.

Despite Hearn's harsh words, Paul has continued to push forward in his career, drawing massive attention and millions in pay-per-view sales. But as he faces the 60-year-old Tyson, the conversation about his abilities remains as heated as ever. Hearn's comments have only added to the intrigue of whether Paul can step up when it truly counts.

As the boxing world prepares for what could be Paul's most high-profile fight yet, the question remains: will this be the moment Paul breaks free of the "average" label, or will Hearn's words once again ring true? All eyes will be on November 15th to see if Paul can finally prove his doubters wrong.

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