Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement

How did Jake Paul become one of the highest-paid athletes in the world? From Disney stardom to his hit YouTube channel and budding boxing career, he’s raking in millions

How did Jake Paul go from YouTuber to budding boxing star? Photo: @jakepaul/Instagram
How did Jake Paul go from YouTuber to budding boxing star? Photo: @jakepaul/Instagram

  • Paul, originally a social media influencer who got famous on Vine and YouTube, once starred in Disney show Bizaardvark alongside Olivia Rodrigo
  • His next challenge will be his biggest one yet: he’s up against reality TV star Tommy Fury, the brother of world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, in December

With only four professional fights to his name, YouTuber Jake Paul has become one of the biggest paydays in boxing. Over the past 12 months, Paul has reportedly earned millions, putting him third on the list of highest-paid boxers, according to Sportico. The only two fighters ahead of him are super middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez and former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

As the 24-year old gears up for another fight this December – against reality TV star Tommy Fury – Paul might not be done rising up the ranks just yet. Staying true to his nickname, “The Problem Child”, he’s already causing a stir by not signing up for voluntary drug testing before the fight, according to various media reports.

Advertisement

But how did a YouTube and former Disney star end up in this position? Here’s a look at Paul’s illustrious journey thus far.

Teenage celebrity

Jake Paul starred in Disney series Bizaardvark. Photo: @jakepaul/Twitter
Jake Paul starred in Disney series Bizaardvark. Photo: @jakepaul/Twitter

At the age of 17, Paul was already building up his infamy on YouTube and the now-defunct Vine, posting funny – and often controversial – skits and pranks, gaining a strong following on the both platforms.

He soon caught the eye of Disney producers and was tapped to star in the comedy series Bizaardvark. He acted alongside the sensational singer-songwriter Olivia Rodrigo.

Disney star goes rogue

After legal trouble, Jake Paul turned his attention back to YouTube. Photo: @jakepaul/Instagram
After legal trouble, Jake Paul turned his attention back to YouTube. Photo: @jakepaul/Instagram