BEN ASKREN admitted that Jake Paul won his respect by beating Tyron Woodley.
Askren, 37, a former UFC star, was easily knocked off by the Problem Child in January.
Jake Paul defeated Ben Askren in a close contest earlier this year
Paul won Woodley's championship, but it was not until then that he gained the respect of his old rival.
Fight Hub TV's Askren said that Jake Paul has earned a lot respect from him.
"I knew he got a TKO against me, but I knew that I wasn't very skilled at boxing.
"I told you all that I wasn't a good boxer. I just think I'm more than he."
"So when he knocked me down, yeah whatever. He didn't earn any respect."
"I watched Tyron versus Tyron and I had a lot respect for Tyron’s striking ability. I believe Tyron won the fight but it was highly competitive.
Free Bets: Get more than PS2,000 in NEW CUSTOMER DEALS
Askren said that Paul, 24 years old, can box, but it is not clear.
"And the only reason you won't think this is because you hate the guy, which I don't.
Woodley, an ex-UFC champion, lost the fight on points despite being rocked by Paul.
Paul announced unexpectedly that he would be retiring from boxing after his win.
It lasted for less than 48 hours with potential opponents waiting to meet him.
Tommy Fury seems to be at the top of this list after beating Anthony Taylor on the Paul Woodley undercard.
The 22-year old, who is 7-0, said that Jake Paul was a huge p***y and didn't want to fight.
"He is not a fighter man. When he gets a pair b ******s to his name, please come see me.
