Is Jake Paul a former Disney child star? What character did 'The Problem Child' play when he was a kid?

Jake Paul (Image credit: Getty Images)
Jake Paul [Image credit: Getty Images]

Whether you encourage his efforts or doubt his legitimacy, Jake Paul has quickly become one of the most talked-about fighters in combat sports. But how did his Disney career pan out?

Usually, actors will grow their brand through the help of Disney before branching out into other areas of entertainment, with movies and music tending to be the most natural destinations. However, Jake Paul was different. He began making a name for himself on the now-defunct social media site Vine, before branching out to YouTube.

After amassing a cult following across the internet, the Ohio native was headhunted and added to Disney Channel's 'Bizaardvark' series. The controversial Paul played a prankster named Dirk Mann, who would pursue dares and perform them for the viewer's humor.

Although he was a lovable member of the cast, who added something different to the television show, complaints began piling up surrounding Jake Paul's name. Midway through the filming of 'Bizaardvark's' second season, the popular star was let go. Despite the setback, the entertainer would continue building his brand and gaining a large amount of attention, though not all of it was positive.

After years of growth in the industry, various business ventures, and a developing music career, the then-21-year-old – alongside his brother Logan and other popular YouTube stars – decided to test himself in the world of boxing.

Ahead of his first bout in the ring in 2018, an exhibition contest, Jake Paul released a diss track on his opponent Deji Olatunji. He would later defeat the British showman via corner stoppage. While his performance was understandably not the best, it would kickstart his career in the sport where he continues to make waves to this day.


Jake Paul's boxing record: How has the YouTuber fared in the ring?

After his aforementioned exhibition clash against Deji, Jake Paul spent the following year working hard to improve his game and that was on show during his next few outings in the ring.

Between 2020 and the end of 2021, the now-26-year-old scored knockout wins over fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib, former NBA player Nate Robinson, and former MMA world champions Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley.

A decision win over Anderson Silva late last year is, without a doubt, his biggest achievement in the sport to date. While 'The Problem Child' did suffer his first defeat to professional boxer Tommy Fury in February this year, he still holds a respectable 6-1 record.

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