Jake Paul's WBA Ranking Called 'Disgusting' by Craig Parker After Losing No. 14 Rank

The WBA's decision to include Jake Paul at No. 14 in its latest cruiserweight rankings has been met with backlash from the boxer whose spot he took.

Craig Parker, who was dropped to No. 15 by the WBA, told TMZ Sports that Paul's ranking is "disgusting" because it doesn't feel properly earned.

"For him just to take a position that guys like me that struggled to find ways to the gym and ... it's a long road to be where we're at. And for him to just be No. 14, it was just like a slap in the face," Parker said.

TMZ noted part of Parker's frustration also stems from the opponents Paul has faced. It's not a stretch to say that many of his challengers are far past their athletic prime or lack true boxing bona fides.

Paul's last two fights were against Julio César Chávez Jr. and Mike Tyson, who was 58 when the bout took place. Chávez had only fought once since 2022 prior to his matchup with Paul and had issues making weight when he was still regularly fighting.

The WBA adding Paul to its rankings means he is now eligible to challenge for the title currently held by Gilberto Ramírez. They did tease a potential bout during a press conference prior to Paul's bout with Chávez:

Parker, who is 20-0 in his professional career, told TMZ he would be willing to step into the ring with Paul to let him prove he has earned his spot in the rankings.

Paul continues to tease a fight with Anthony Joshua, saying after his victory over Chávez that it was "likely" going to happen in 2026.