Jake Paul is known as a disrupter in boxing. The YouTuber’s brash personality has clashed with almost everyone in the sport, making him a controversial and polarising figure.
With a world title still in his sights, "The Problem Child" is now targeting another lofty goal: the Olympics.
Paul recently discussed the idea of competing at the 2028 Olympics. He wants to win a gold medal for Team USA in boxing, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished by a man since Andre Ward in 2004. Claressa Shields was the last female boxer from the U.S. to win gold in 2012 and 2016.
“I'm going to enter the 2028 Olympics for boxing in Los Angeles. I'm sick and tired of waiting for another gold for Team USA. Not retiring. I probably just added a couple more years to my boxing career… Gold medal, you’re mine, brother,” Paul said on his BS w/ Jake Paul podcast.
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It is a challenge many have scoffed at, but something Paul welcomes with open arms. Are his goals possible or is it all just a dream?
Can Jake Paul qualify for the 2028 Olympics?
Paul turned pro in 2020, beating YouTuber AnEsonGib. He has since fought various MMA fighters in a boxing ring, recently defeating bare-knuckle star Mike Perry in July.
The Cleveland native has fought three pro boxers: Tommy Fury, Andre August, and Ryan Bourland. Paul is scheduled to face Mike Tyson in November, in a bout that was delayed due to a health scare suffered by the legendary former champ.
Paul must continue his journey in the sport and face real boxers to qualify. It may not be impossible for him to do so, as the International Olympic Committee (IOC) have allowed pro boxers to compete in the Olympics since the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.
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However, there have been some hiccups following that ruling. The IBF and WBC issued press releases stating that they would ban professional fighters from ratings if they competed in Rio.
Former eight-weight world champion Manny Pacquiao wanted to come out of retirement and compete in Paris but his application was denied due to his age (45).
Paul, 27, will be 31 by the time the 2028 Olympics come to Los Angeles. He must qualify via USA Boxing matches, pass drug tests, and be accepted by the IOC. Not too hard, right?
Jake Paul and USA Boxing
Paul already has a relationship with USA Boxing, the National Governing Body for Olympic-style amateur boxing in the U.S. He has mentored young athletes while using his influence to showcase talent via social media.
Training with several athletes in Colorado, Paul has looked to expand the influence, confidence, and skills of those attempting to make the Olympics.
“It has always been my goal to shine a spotlight not just on boxing as a sport, but on the people who work so hard to be the best within it,” said Paul. “The mindset of pursuing greatness is one I both see and personally share with Mo McCane, Joshua Edwards, and the rest of Team USA’s boxing talent.
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“The Olympics are the greatest stage in the world, and I’m honored to help bring awareness to USA Boxing and mentor these young, inspiring athletes as they fight for gold. Anyone who works hard enough to receive the honor to represent Team USA at the Olympics deserves a platform, so I’m looking forward to getting down to business in Colorado Springs with Coach Walsh and the rest of Team USA.”
Will boxing be included in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles?
The IOC suspended the International Boxing Association (IBA) due to concerns over judging and refereeing, financial stability, ethical issues, and governance. The organization has been around since 1946, initially as AIBA.
In 2020, Russia’s Umar Kremlev was elected President of the IBA, which moved from Switzerland to Russia. The IOC strongly opposed energy giant Gazprom’s association with the IBA after it was revealed debts of over $20 million suddenly cleared. It was also reported that following Ukraine’s suspension by the IBA in 2022, Kremlev had connections to Vladimir Putin.
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No global organization has taken its place since the IOC removed the IBA. The IOC ruled that a replacement is needed by early 2025, or the 2028 Olympic program will not have boxing, a sport in the Olympics since 1904.
“The popularity of boxing in America is important, and its ability to have kids from all socioeconomic walks of life be able to participate in it is powerful and important,” said LA28 CEO Casey Wasserman via dawn.com
Swiss-registered World Boxing has support from various countries but has not been accepted officially by the IOC as of this moment.