Undisputed light heavyweight boxing champion Artur Beterbiev’s callout of Jake Paul had a deeper meaning.
Artur Beterbiev is one of the best pound-for-pound boxers in the world. His current status as one of the best combatants on the planet prompted many to question why he’d consider fighting Jake Paul instead of other, more established opponents.
Beterbiev took exception to Paul’s claim that he “runs boxing” following his lopsided victory over Mike Tyson. In response, he offered to face Paul to teach the polarizing figure a lesson in the ‘sweet science’.
While Beterbiev was serious in his initial invitation to face Paul in the ring, it was in direct connection to Paul’s latest victory, and a chance at serving payback for one of his heroes.
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Artur Beterbiev: Jake Paul callout centered on payback
Beterbiev revealed in a recent interview with Seconds Out that his Paul callout was driven by revenge.
“In boxing, for a long time I have had my favorite boxers and they are Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson,” Beterbiev explained. “And Jake Paul beat Mike Tyson and it’s my first reaction that I want to pay him back.
“But after a couple of days, it is good, I don’t want to fight with him. If he wants to then yes but I don’t think he wants to fight me… I think I’d show him boxing.” (h/t talkSPORT)
Beterbiev will face Dmitry Bivol in a light heavyweight championship rematch next month. Beterbiev vs. Bivol 2 co-headlines on the upcoming Riyadh Season card featuring Daniel Dubois vs. Joseph Parker.
As for Paul, the win over Tyson was his fifth consecutive victory since his first career defeat to Tommy Fury. Before the Tyson fight, Paul defeated Bare Knuckle FC superstar Mike Perry and boxing vets Ryan Bourland and Andre August.
Beterbiev could potentially face Paul down the line, but it likely won’t take place anytime soon. But, Paul wants to face elite competition, including a possible clash with Canelo Alvarez in the future.
Artur Beterbiev looks to close chapter on Dmitry Bivol rivalry
Beterbiev is fresh off his controversial win over Bivol, retaining his titles by majority decision. He remains unbeaten in his career with recent wins over Callum Smith and Joe Smith Jr.
If Beterbiev defeats Bivol for the second time, he’ll likely need some help finding willing challengers who will also be able to promote fights. While Paul getting a world title shot anytime soon is far-fetched, it’s an option that Beterbiev and his team might consider if he moves to 2-0 over Bivol.
For now, it appears Beterbiev’s pursuit of Paul has cooled off, as both sides pursue other opponents. But, the light heavyweight juggernaut may revisit the matchup after the Bivol rematch.