The critics of Jake Paul urged him to take on real boxers. He has now successfully eliminated two of them in the first round. In the first round on Saturday night in San Juan, Puerto Rico, at 2:37 of the first, the YouTuber-turned-prizefighter submitted Ryan Bourland via TKO.
Paul delivered a crisp, early jab to the body with his strong right hands. Bourland was injured by a powerful combination that was put up against the ropes. Then Paul went all out until the match was stopped by referee Luis Pabon. The crowd was in favor of Paul, who resides and trains in Puerto Rico.
He went out dressed as a rooster and went by the pseudonym “El Gallo de Dorado,” which he had adopted. “Gallo” was being chanted by the spectators during the entry and the opening round. “In my postfight interview, I wanted it to be a little longer to give the fans some more time,” Paul stated. “I am incredibly delighted to be in Puerto Rico.
You guys have crazy love.” Paul had defeated Andre August, a journeyman opponent who was comparable to Bourland but less skilled, via first-round knockout in December. Paul won 24–3 against Bourland. “I guess we just got to step it up even way more,” remarked Paul. “The big leagues are where I belong. I’m becoming more perceptive.
This is my current way of living.” Paul claimed he didn’t want to name names when asked who he wanted to fight next. He did, however, suggest Canelo Alvarez. Paul yelled, “Hey Canelo, stop ducking.” You’re bound to want it. You represent Mexico, and I represent Puerto Rico. Thus, Mexico vs. Puerto Rico.”
Since Tommy Fury defeated him in February 2023 to end his professional career, Paul (9-1, 6 KOs) has won three straight. After that setback, the native of Ohio defeated UFC icon Nate Diaz by majority decision in August. The 27-year-old Paul has also triumphed over former UFC champions Tyron Woodley and Anderson Silva. (Paul did, in fact, triumph over Woodley twice—once by knockout.) Bourland (17-3), a 35-year-old native of California, lost his winning run of three fights.
Paul has switched to a more conventional boxing path after the Diaz fight, taking on opponents who would help him gain experience in the hopes of one day challenging for a title. “If a money fight pops up, I’ll take it, because those are fun,” Paul replied. “For now, I’m staying on the path of fighting real fighters and increasing the level of competition.”