Famous boxer and Youtuber Jake Paul says, "I am Jewish" in viral Bar Mitzvah video – and the world is going crazy

Social media star and professional boxer Jake Paul, 28, has sparked widespread attention with a video showing him participating in Jewish religious practices and declaring "I am Jewish."

In the viral clip, Paul is seen wearing tefillin (Jewish prayer phylacteries) and reciting several Jewish prayers, including the Shema Yisrael and "Am Yisrael Chai." The video concludes with Paul joining in the traditional celebratory song "Siman Tov U'Mazel Tov."

When questioned about his Jewish lineage in the video, Paul claimed his mother was Jewish. However, public records and previous media coverage indicate his connection to Judaism comes through his maternal great-grandmother, Lillian Meredith (née Buxbaum). According to genealogical records, the Buxbaum family emigrated from Germany and settled in Massachusetts, where Lillian's father is buried in a Jewish cemetery in Boston.

This family history came to light in a 2016 YouTube video where Paul's mother, Pamela, discussed their Jewish ancestry with his brother Logan, stating "You have a little bit of Jew in you" while referencing their great-grandmother's heritage.

The video has generated mixed reactions across social media platforms:

- Some viewers responded with humor, making light-hearted comments about traditional Jewish practices

- Others questioned the authenticity of the presentation, sharing past screenshots of Paul's previous religious statements

- Critics characterized the video as potentially disrespectful to Judaism

Paul has previously expressed public support for Israel, notably during October 2023 when he condemned attacks on Israeli civilians, posting "Cowards kill civilians" on social media.

The influencer, known for his boxing career and massive social media following, continues to draw attention for both his athletic endeavors and public statements about his heritage.

Moshiach.ru and Ynet contributed to this article.