Influencer boxing has gone from being a novelty sideshow to a full-blown pop-culture movement, and no name is more closely tied to its rise than Jake Paul. Influencer boxing found its biggest star in “The Problem Child,” who transformed online clout into sold-out arenas and pay-per-view numbers. For many fans, influencer boxing became legitimate the moment Jake Paul stopped being just a YouTuber and started looking like a real fighter with power, discipline, and ambition. Love him or hate him, his journey has shaped how the world now views influencer-led combat sports.
Despite constant criticism over his opponent choices, Jake Paul has made the most of the opportunities that influencer boxing has created. With a professional record of 7–1 and victories over multiple former UFC champions, he has proven that this new wave of boxing isn’t just about hype. While traditionalists may argue he isn’t a complete boxer yet, it’s hard to deny that he is ahead of most fighters who entered the sport from social media backgrounds.
The Beginning of Jake Paul’s Influencer Boxing Journey
Jake Paul’s professional boxing career began in August 2018, when he fought Deji in an amateur match as part of the KSI vs. Logan Paul undercard. Jake Paul, a massive favorite, found himself dazed and bloodied in quick exchanges with Deji, despite Deji’s significantly smaller size.
However, in that fight, there was a crucial revelation. Paul was just able to survive the early rounds, remained stoic, and finally dominated the fight. He went on to record a fifth-round stoppage victory, which is chocked full of resilience, grit, and some qualities that are not often seen in influencer fighters.
Nearly two years later, Paul take the next step. In January 2020, he made his professional debut in the undercard event for Demetrius Andrade vs. Jason Quigley, but his opponent’s name was AnEsonGib. The fight lasted no more than a round, with Paul achieving a knockout victory. Although this fight was apparent for what it truly was, with major promoter Eddie Hearn on board, one thing was certain – influencer boxing wouldn’t be going anywhere.
5 Defining Highlights From Jake Paul’s Boxing Career
1. Amateur Win Over Deji – The First Reality Check
The boxing career of Jake Paul began in 2018 against Deji as part of the undercard action for KSI vs. Logan Paul. Although Deji was considered the underdog, the bout did not turn out as smoothly for Jake as he expected. Deji surprised him with his initial performance, connecting good hits that even made his nose bleed. Instead of panicking, Jake refocused, readjusted, and eventually dominated.
2. Pro Debut Knockout – Jake Paul vs AnEsonGib
In January 2020, his professional boxing career began with a fight against AnEsonGib, and it was an easy victory for Paul. Paul’s first-round knockout in an event with significant support from the promoter Eddie Hearn immediately distinguished the boxer from other influencer boxers. Although questions were raised about the caliber of his opponents, his performance demonstrated his poise and preparedness. Perhaps more significantly, it was the point at which influencer boxers crossed an indisputable border into the legitimate world of professional boxers rather than being exclusive to the world of YouTube.
3. Viral Knockout of Nate Robinson
The knockout as seen on former NBA star Nate Robinson was a turning point not only in Jake Paul’s career as a boxer, but in the world of influencer boxing in general. The video went viral in the sports world, as well as general pop culture, gaining feedback from both sports stars, celebrities, and boxing superstars. Jake Paul was no longer fighting online stars, he was now going to make headlines in the sports world as well.
4. Victories Over Tyron Woodley
The most significant victory in the process of seeing Jake Paul differently as a boxer occurred when he knocked out former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley. Although Woodley was well past his peak in MMA, he has been a high-level fighter for many years. Paul’s victory in their first contest was indicative of a high level of intelligence, while his knockout in their rematch shut down all critics that may still have existed.
5. Stepping Up Against Tommy Fury
Jake Paul’s first professional defeat was against Tommy Fury, who is a boxer with extensive training and ring experience. Though Paul didn’t get the outcome he wanted, this match brought him visibility for being bold enough to enter the ring with a boxer of Fury’s stature. Even though it was a decision loss, it showed Jake Paul’s limitations but also his boldness in being ready to face challenges. Instead of being satisfied with his unbroken winning streak. In all respects, this match helped Jake Paul mature his image.
The Big Fight Ahead; Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua
The next possible chapter in the world of influencer boxers might be the biggest yet. A much-publicized showdown between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua will go live on the 19th of Dec, 2025, and has already created a huge buzz among the spectators worldwide.
Anthony Joshua is a two-time former heavyweight champion of the world and Olympic gold medal winner. With his explosive punching power and athletic ability, combined with his disciplined style of boxing, Josh is the epitome of the truly elite boxer. A fight with Anthony Joshua would mean something more to Jake Paul.
To Jake, a fight with Anthony would not be just another fight; it would make a statement. Winning or losing the fight is not the issue, but taking on the likes of Joshua in a boxing ring would make it a historic day in influencer boxing.
