Cruiserweight and boxing promoter Jake Paul took a big social media misstep today, calling Puerto Rican music superstar Bad Bunny a "fake American" just before Bad Bunny was set to perform at the Super Bowl. Paul lives in Puerto Rico and the most popular boxer on his promotional roster is another beloved Puerto Rican, multi-division champion Amanda Serrano. NOTE: Puerto Ricans are American citizens. Here is what Paul tweeted: "Purposefully turning off the [Super Bowl] halftime show. Let’s rally together and show big corporations they can’t just do whatever they want without consequences (which equals viewership for them). You are their benefit. Realize you have power. Turn off this halftime. A fake American citizen performing who publicly hates America. I cannot support that."
Amanda Serrano responded: "Tonight I am here where I’m supposed to be in my beautiful Island with my people celebrating and watching with awe how well Benito [Bad Bunny] represented us and our culture. I am proud to be Puerto Rican, and I am proud to be an American citizen. Puerto Ricans are not 'fake Americans.' We are citizens who have contributed to this country in every field, from military service to sports, business, science, and the arts, and our identity and citizenship deserve respect. I would not have the opportunities I have today without the support and belief that Most Valuable Promotions and Jake Paul showed in me, and I will always be grateful for the role they have played in helping change my life and in elevating women’s boxing. At the same time, I want to be clear: I do not agree with statements that question the legitimacy or identity of Puerto Rican people, and I cannot support that characterization. It is wrong. I fight with the pride of Puerto Rico and represent my flag every time I step into the ring. I will always stand with my people, with respect for who we are, and with pride in where we come from. I will never change and will forever be a Proud Boricua."
Even Jake's own brother, Logan Paul, took exception: "I love my brother but I don’t agree with this. Puerto Ricans are Americans & I’m happy they were given the opportunity to showcase the talent that comes from the island."
Women's heavyweight champion Claressa Shields: "Please Jake, not today. Puerto Ricans are not fake citizens. You would think that you of all people would support this as you have so many Puerto Rican women under your umbrella. What’s happening with ICE is terrible and we shouldn’t want to see harm done to anyone who is apart of America & a minority! Do better Jake. This isn’t right."
