Legendary boxer Oscar De La Hoya has expressed admiration for YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, highlighting the hard work and discipline Paul has demonstrated in his transition from social media star to professional fighter. In an exclusive interview with Page Six, De La Hoya, a former champion with a storied career, acknowledged that he respects Paul for his commitment to boxing, despite his unconventional background.
De La Hoya noted that Paul, who gained fame on the Disney Channel’s "Bizaardvark" from 2016 to 2018, did not have a boxing background during that time. However, since making his professional boxing debut against fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib in January 2020, Paul has shown significant dedication to the sport. "He’s actually putting in the work," De La Hoya stated, adding that Paul works harder than many traditional fighters when it comes to training and discipline.
Paul has built a massive following on social media, boasting over 20 million subscribers on YouTube, 28.7 million followers on Instagram, and 18.5 million on TikTok. Initially known for his comedic content, he has since shifted his focus to boxing, participating in several high-profile exhibition matches. Most recently, he faced boxing legend Mike Tyson in November 2024, winning the bout by unanimous decision after eight rounds, further cementing his status in the boxing world.
While some critics, including ESPN host Stephen A. Smith, have questioned Paul’s choice of opponents, arguing that he has not fought boxers in their prime, De La Hoya’s endorsement may lend credibility to Paul’s efforts in the ring. The former champion himself has considered stepping back into the ring for an exhibition match but indicated that he is content with his current role as a promoter and entertainer.
De La Hoya has also ventured into the entertainment industry, recently appearing on Fox’s "The Masked Singer" as the character Fuzzy Peas. He admitted that performing on the show was nerve-wracking, comparing it to the pre-fight jitters he experienced during his boxing career. Despite his nerves, he found joy in performing once the music started.
As De La Hoya continues to balance his boxing promotion duties with his new entertainment endeavors, the respect he has shown for Jake Paul highlights a growing acceptance of the crossover between traditional sports and modern entertainment platforms.