Jake Paul is facing intense backlash after igniting controversy with a call to boycott Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl halftime show. Just hours before the Puerto Rican global superstar took the stage, the boxer and influencer posted on X urging fans to “tune out” the performance, labeling Bad Bunny a “fake American citizen” who “hates America.” The remarks spread rapidly online—and so did the outrage.
What may have been intended as a bold statement quickly turned into a full-blown PR firestorm. Critics immediately pointed out the glaring contradiction in Paul’s stance: he has been living in Puerto Rico for years, taking advantage of the island’s Act 60 tax incentives. Under the program, eligible residents can receive major tax breaks, including 0% on capital gains. For many observers, Paul’s comments about American identity rang hollow given his own relocation to the U.S. territory.
The backlash intensified as social media users highlighted another layer of irony. One of the biggest stars signed to Paul’s boxing promotion company is Amanda Serrano, a seven-division world champion who proudly represents Puerto Rico. Commenters accused Paul of hypocrisy, questioning how he could criticize a Puerto Rican artist’s citizenship while profiting from business and tax benefits tied to the island.
Even Logan Paul appeared to distance himself from the controversy. In a public response, he clarified that Puerto Ricans are American citizens and expressed support for showcasing talent from the island on a global stage. His statement only amplified the divide, with many praising Logan for speaking out while condemning Jake’s initial remarks.
The situation also reignited broader conversations about Act 60 and the influx of wealthy mainland Americans relocating to Puerto Rico for financial advantages. Critics argue the program has contributed to rising housing costs and economic tension on the island, fueling debates about fairness and privilege. Against that backdrop, Paul’s comments struck many as particularly tone-deaf.
As Bad Bunny’s halftime performance dominated headlines for its spectacle and cultural impact, Jake Paul found himself trending for an entirely different reason. While neither he nor his team has issued a formal apology, the controversy underscores how quickly social media statements can spiral—especially when they touch on identity, citizenship, and cultural pride.
