OSCAR DE LA HOYA backed Jake Paul in his quest to become WORLD CHAMPION. He said, "I really believe that he could."
Paul, an American legend, also suggested that Paul change boxing for the better because of his ability to attract new eyes to the sport.
Oscar De La Hoya has supported Jake Paul in his quest to be the world champion
De La Hoya has been a hero in the social media phenomenon and has offered his advice and support behind the scenes.
Paul is a former champ in six divisions and Olympic gold medalist who has spoken out in support of Paul. He believes that he can go all the way with boxing.
SunSport interviewed De La Hoya (48): "I admire his courage.
"I admire him for being so determined about becoming the world champion, and I see the talent within him.
"I believe he has the heart and determination to win the world championship.
"He has skill, but he isn't as experienced as people may think. But that will change in the future.
"He has many followers so he is subject to a lot criticism, but that's part of the territory."
Paul, 24 years old, only became professional in January 2020 after he had just one boxing show to his credit.
He raced quickly to 3-0 all-by-knockout, winning over an online rival, 'AnEsonGib,' ex-NBA player Nate Robinson (37), and Ben Askren (37).
Paul will now face his greatest challenge to date in Tyron Woodley (39), a former UFC Welterweight champion.
Although the American is not yet well-known in the ring, he has been a big box office hit with his two recent wins grossing over 3 million pay-per-views.
De La Hoya, despite being heavily criticised by his opponents, has pleaded for patience with Paul who is bringing back boxing numbers.
He stated that he had attracted a new fanbase, which is admirable. No one has ever been capable of doing that.
"So, we must embrace it in boxing as a community. We must not be so negative.
"Jake Paul is a fighter who can open doors, can change boxing and can attract the masses on an international level.
"So, I'm his fan, 1,000 percent and I'm looking forward doing something with him for sport's sake."
After a devastating loss to Manny Pacquiao 13 years ago, De La Hoya was forced to retire. He is currently fighting at age 42.
He announced last year a surprise comeback after being inspired by Mike Tyson, 55, a heavyweight icon who is November returned into the ring.
De La Hoya will be following suit against Vitor Belfort (44), who, like Paul, was a former UFC champion.
The Golden Boy kept an eye on Paul's fight against Woodley and broke down their differences.
De La Hoya stated: "Woodley, I can see, has been working hard.
"He is a great trainer, but the difference I see between Woodley and Jake are the punches, angles, and power.
"They're going be in great condition, Woodley feels incredible. But me, as a fighter, and an expert, can see the punches coming for, the angles.
"I feel Jake is more disciplined when throwing punches. That could make a difference."
