WBC boxing rankings, explained: Why Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury winner earns cruiserweight points
Jake Paul, world boxing champion? No, this is not a hypothetical question or an attempt at a laugh. If Paul gets past Tommy Fury, “The Problem Child” might be one step closer to wearing gold around his waist.
Imagine if someone told you that three years ago. For some, even in 2023, it’s still incredible to think about. To be clear, we are still a LONG ways away.
Paul and Fury face off on February 26th. Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Arena will host the fight, the third time the two have attempted to touch gloves. It’s a classic YouTuber versus boxer match, a common theme of boxing’s final years.
Paul’s struggles were met with praise and ridicule. Fury will be Paul’s first opponent with credible boxing experience. Although the combined record of Fury’s opponents before their clash was 24-176-5, his 8-0 record is impressive, especially when compared to Paul’s resume against former NBA stars, YouTubers and MMA figures.
MORE: Subscribe to watch Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury on ESPN+
Money and bragging rights are at stake. In a battle of this magnitude, one would think there was something of real value at stake. Ask and you will receive, although some boxing fans may not have wanted what is coming.
Paul and Fury will fight for the chance to fight for gold. Mauricio Sulaiman, the WBC president, confirmed in a press release that Paul would receive a WBC cruiserweight ranking number if he beat Fury. He later told SunSport that Fury would also get a ranking if he beat Paul.
“Jake Paul has been close to the WBC for several years, starting with the first event promoted in the UK when his brother Logan fought KSI; That night, Jake won the WBC amateur belt in undercard bouts,” Sulaiman said.
“Jake has a passion and respect for the sport and the WBC will not tolerate discrimination against anyone, he deserves the opportunities that every other boxer has. He demonstrated punching power and improved skills, as well as a solid chin. Tommy Fury presents a clear challenge to Paul in a match between two undefeated professional boxers.
MORE: Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury rivalry explained
WBC Boxing Rankings for the Cruiserweight Division
The WBC rankings feature 40 contenders, with the top 15 eligible to compete for gold. There could be a big shift in the WBC rankings depending on how either man fares.
Here’s a look at the WBC’s current top 15 rankings via the WBC’s own website:
| ranking | Fighter (Record) |
| champion | Ilunga Macabu (29-2) |
| 1 | Noel Mikaelyan (26-2) |
| 2 | Thabiso Mchunu (23-6) |
| 3 | Badou Jack (27-3-3) |
| 4 | Sergei Kovalev (35-4-1) |
| 5 | Richard Riakporhe (16-0) |
| 6 | Chris Billam Smith (17-1) |
| 7 | Ryan Rozicki (17-1) |
| 8th | Mateusz Masternak (47-5) |
| 9 | Yamil Alberto Peralta (14-1) |
| 10 | Yunier Dorticos (26-2) |
| 11 | Michael Cieslak (23-2) |
| 12 | Andreas Tabiti (20-1) |
| 13 | Olanrevayu Durodola (40-9) |
| 14 | Mike Perez (27-3-1) |
| 15 | Brandon Glanton (17-1) |