Andre Ward Praises Jake Paul For Bringing New Audience To Boxing

Jake Paul‘s an enormous deal in boxing, and a few folks do not prefer it … however do not depend legendary boxer Andre Ward amongst that group ‘trigger the multiple-time former world champion tells us he is a fan of The Drawback Baby driving new followers to the game!

“I don’t hate on it,” Ward informed Babcock on the “TMZ Sports” TV present (airs nightly on FS1) this week … of Paul’s transition from YouTuber to boxing star.

“The crossover stuff like what Jake Paul, Logan [Paul] is doing, [Francis] Ngannou just did, I respect it. That takes a lot of courage, takes a lot of heart.”

Ward — who retired in 2017 with an ideal 32-0 file — stated he applauds Paul for ignoring the naysayers who’ve labeled him a gimmick or sideshow and need him out of the game.

“I don’t think so. It actually brings a new audience, more eyeballs,” Ward stated, “and if the fanbase follows them over to boxing, then more power to ’em.”

“I’m a fan of it, I appreciate it and I watch it.”

The truth is, Ward, who continues to be solely 39 years previous, informed us he’d really be all the way down to step again within the ring for an exhibition battle … in opposition to Jake or Logan.

“I don’t hate against it. I would probably do it for the right situation. I keep myself just good enough to where if I needed 7, 8 weeks, I can take care of my business,” Ward stated.

Though he hasn’t been combating, Ward’s been busy … the truth is, he simply launched a model new memoir titled “Killing The Image: A Champion’s Journey Of Faith, Fighting, And Forgiveness.”

Ward’s e-book is not nearly boxing … Son of God talks about every part from his troublesome childhood to the function that religion and faith have performed in his life, and the way it’s guided to him unbelievable heights — together with 5 world titles and an Olympic gold medal.

“This book takes you deep into my mind, into my life, into my upbringing [and] how I go to the point that I’m at today.”