Unified cruiserweight king Gilberto “Zurdo” Ramírez isn’t just defending his WBA and WBO titles against Yuniel Dorticos this Saturday at Anaheim’s Honda Center—he’s also baiting YouTube star–turned–contender Jake Paul with the promise of a genuine world-title shot. “He said he’s ‘ready’ to challenge me. If he beats Chávez Jr., I’ll take him at his word,” Ramírez declared during fight-week media.
Ramírez (47-1, 30 KOs) headlines the co-feature, marking his first defence since lifting both belts in March. Paul (11-1, 7 KOs) tops the bill opposite former middleweight titlist Julio César Chávez Jr. in a 10-round cruiserweight bout. Should both Mexicans win, a novelty crossover suddenly morphs into a sanctioned championship clash - with Ramírez eager to add Paul’s name to an eventual undisputed run against IBF champ Jai Opetaia and WBC holder Badou Jack.
“I’m closing in on 50 wins, but legacy means belts,” the 34-year-old southpaw said. “If Paul wants action after Chávez, great - then I move on to collect the rest.” Paul, who called out Ramírez at the Los Angeles press conference, would leapfrog the rankings into a pay-per-view title opportunity, further blurring boxing’s celebrity lines if he prevails.
First, Ramírez must handle Cuba’s heavy-handed Dorticos, and Paul must navigate the inconsistent yet dangerous Chávez Jr. Only then can the sport see whether a two-belt champ versus an influencer is serious business - or just talk.
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Image Credit: ESPN