JAKE PAUL has been told his change in boxing trajectory puts him on the path to challenging for a world title.
The YouTuber-turned-boxer started out his career beating stars of the social media, basketball and MMA world.
But when he stepped up to fight unbeaten boxer Tommy Fury, 24, in February, he was beaten by split-decision in Saudi Arabia.
He bounced back in August on points against UFC veteran Nate Diaz, 38, but it would be the last time Paul, 26, took on a non boxer.
Paul returned against little-known 10-1-1 Andre August, 35, and knocked out the seasoned American in the first round.
Now the American is set to return on March 2 in Puerto Rico on the undercard of Amanda Serrano’s homecoming bout.
No opponent has been named but all signs point towards another traditional boxer as Paul looks to build real credibility in the ring.
Muhammad Ali’s grandson Nico – a 9-1 middleweight – has been left impressed by Paul’s change of lane.
Nico, 23, told SunSport: “I give him a ton of respect. His last fight he fought a legitimate boxer, a no-name boxer and I heard he did well.
“That’s what it’s going to take to get to contender status, to get to champ status, to get to a title fight.
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“It’s going to take fighting someone that nobody knows about, not making any money from it.
“Just building your resume and then just fighting for millions one day.”
Nico – whose last fight was documented in an OnlyFans series called Rise & Grind – has been linked with a crossover-style spectacle bout against Paul in the past.
But he has no interest in stepping into that realm – such is the admiration he has for his legendary grandfather.
Nico said: “I have so much respect for this legacy, it’s bigger than me. I can’t be selfish with it because a lot of people care for it.
“Just going to Africa and seeing so many people chant, “Ali” just for the love and respect they have for my grandfather was crazy.
“So, this legacy is bigger than me. I can’t be greedy and be like, ‘I’m going to do a money-grab and start fighting YouTubers.’
“That’s insane, I didn’t get into boxing for the money. I think the money will come in time and I love what I’m doing right now, taking the long road.
“I want to be champ one day, I want to get to that undisputed level and you can’t do that fighting YouTubers.”
*Nico’s episode of “Rise & Grind” is now available to watch on OFTV.
