Jake Paul delivers heartfelt message for Ben Askren after Julio Cesar Chavez Jr victory

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Jake Paul used his post-fight speech to tell fans to donate to his former opponent Ben Askren following his big win on Saturday night.

The YouTuber-turned-boxer defeated former middleweight world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in his toughest test to date, after surviving a late onslaught from the 61-fight veteran. After a customary heel promo to rile up the California crowd, he quickly turned to a more serious topic.

The relationship between Paul and Askren never really improved after their fight in 2021, but when the former MMA champion’s health struggles were revealed earlier this month, Paul was among the first to send his support.

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Jake Paul uses post-fight speech to raise awareness for Ben Askren fundraiser

Paul had to battle back from a late flurry to earn a unanimous decision over Chavez Jr in what was considered the toughest test of his 13-fight career going in. Fans in the arena were loudly pro-Chavez, and the boos for Paul were predictable – especially once he called it ‘easy work’.

But after goading the crowd, he shifted focus during his post-fight interview, using his platform to highlight Askren’s ongoing health battle. Reports say Askren is improving, but he still faces a financial challenge to afford the lung transplant.

On June 25, FloWrestling’s Mark Bader revealed in a video that Askren’s required transplant wouldn’t be covered by insurance, calling the costs “astronomical.” A verified non-profit fund has since been set up through Help Hope Live to support Askren’s medical needs.

During his post-fight appearance, Paul also pledged to make a sizeable donation himself, telling Ariel Helwani that he and his brother Logan Paul would both contribute.

Jake Paul has already paid tribute to Askren

Paul conducted a passionate interview at the start of fight week, and during the open workout, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions and former UFC COO Nakisa Bidarian revealed that he had wanted to reach out to the Askren family but decided against it to avoid coming across as insincere.

“My prayers go out to him,” Paul said during media obligations. “I feel sorry for his family, I can’t imagine what they’re going through.

“I just hope that he can recover because there’s so much more to life besides fighting and careers. I’m wishing him the best and I’m here if they need any support.”