Boxing Legend Andre Ward Sends A Message To Jake Paul's Critics: 'Step Your Game Up!'

During a recent appearance on The MMA Hour, Ward weighed in on Paul's next boxing test and sent a pointed message to his critics.

"I can't knock what he's doing," Ward said. "A lot of people have a lot to say about the young man, but I know the circle he runs with from a boxing standpoint, and I know the guys he's around. He's around real boxing people, in a real gym. Taking the shiners and going through the process to be a good fighter.

"Would he ever become a world champion, knowing how the sanctioning bodies are? They'll probably set that up if there's enough money involved. But I gotta respect his process. People say, 'He's taking away from fighters.' How? It's bringing eyeballs, interest, cross-promotion going on from a whole different world that Jake comes from. And if they follow him over to this sport, my message to other fighters is step your game up! Don't get mad at Jake."

Ward retired from professional boxing but is one of the top analysts in the sport. The Boxing Hall of Famer left the ring with a 32-0 record and titles at multiple weight classes.

Paul's boxing career is unprecedented, and the amount of passion he's received from both his supporters and detractors is palpable. But, Ward thinks Paul should be respected for his willingness to fight and learn.