Jake Paul has clarified his controversial remarks about Bad Bunny following widespread criticism, insisting he was targeting the Puerto Rican singer’s stance on immigration enforcement rather than questioning his citizenship.
The 29-year-old YouTuber and boxer faced significant backlash after labelling Bad Bunny a “fake American citizen” ahead of the Super Bowl halftime performance.
In follow-up posts on X, Paul stated: “The problem with my tweet is the word fake being misinterpreted, he’s not a fake citizen obviously bc he’s Puerto Rican and I love Puerto Rico and all Americans who support the country.”
He added: “But if you’re publicly criticizing ICE who are doing their job and openly hating on America, I’m going to speak on it. Period.”
Paul’s initial post had called on viewers to switch off during the halftime entertainment at the clash between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots.
“Purposefully turning off the 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),” he wrote.
“You are their benefit. Realise you have power. Turn off this halftime.”
Jake Paul has clarified his controversial remarks about Bad Bunny following widespread criticism, insisting he was targeting the Puerto Rican singer’s stance on immigration enforcement rather than questioning his citizenship
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He continued: “A fake American citizen performing who publicly hates America. I cannot support that.”
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, delivered a politically charged performance that included displaying a sign reading: “The only thing more powerful than hate, is love.”
Paul’s own brother Logan was among those who publicly distanced themselves from the remarks.
To clarify: I wasn’t calling anyone a “fake citizen” because they’re from Puerto Rico. I live in Puerto Rico, and I love Puerto Rico. I have used my platform to support Puerto Rico time and time again and will always do so.
But if you’re publicly criticizing ICE who are doing…
— Jake Paul (@jakepaul) February 9, 2026
“I love my brother but I don’t agree with this,” Logan Paul responded on the platform.
“Puerto Ricans are Americans & I’m happy they were given the opportunity to showcase the talent that comes from the island.”
The response from Logan placed him alongside hundreds of social media users who challenged Jake’s characterisation of the Grammy-winning artist.
The public disagreement between the Paul brothers highlighted the divisive nature of Jake’s original comments, which many interpreted as questioning the legitimacy of Puerto Rican citizenship despite the territory’s residents holding full American citizenship since 1917.
Professional boxer Amanda Serrano, who competes under Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions banner, released an extensive statement taking issue with her promoter’s characterisation of Puerto Ricans.
“I am proud to be Puerto Rican, and I am proud to be an American citizen,” she wrote.
Bad Bunny performed at this year’s Super Bowl half-time show | GETTY
“Puerto Ricans are not ‘fake Americans.”
The fighter acknowledged the role Paul’s company had played in advancing her career and elevating women’s boxing, expressing lasting gratitude for their support.
However, she made her position unambiguous: “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.”
Serrano emphasised she would always represent her flag with pride, declaring herself “forever a Proud Boricua.”
