Jake Paul quietly stepped up to help his former opponent Ben Askren during a serious health crisis. The YouTuber-turned-boxer covered a $500,000 bill for Askren's double lung transplant when health insurance failed to do so.
Paul's act of kindness came to light when The Rugby League Report shared the news on X. Amanda Serrano, a seven-division world champion in boxing, praised Paul's character:
"I'm telling you, He's Different! Not once did he go public with this. @jakepaul isn't what most think. To know him is to love him"
Paul and Askren faced off in the ring back in April 2021. Paul won the fight by TKO in less than two minutes, knocking Askren out with a powerful right hand. The victory pushed Paul's record to 3-0 as a professional boxer and cemented his place in combat sports.
Despite their past as opponents, Paul showed unexpected compassion when Askren fell ill with pneumonia and needed an urgent double lung transplant. The procedure carried a hefty $500,000 price tag that Askren's insurance wouldn't cover.
Paul stepped in without fanfare or publicity to cover the entire bill. He later addressed Askren's health struggles during a post-fight broadcast after beating Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in June 2025. Paul prayed for Askren's recovery and urged viewers to support Askren and his family. He also pledged to make a donation.
Amy Askren, Ben's wife, shared an emotional Instagram post about her husband's double lung transplant and the outpouring of support they received. While she didn't name specific donors, her gratitude was clear.
Paul's gesture serves as a reminder that even controversial figures can show profound kindness in times of crisis. It highlights a transformation from rivals to allies and unexpected solidarity among fighters.
