Anthony Joshua has agreed to face YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in an eight-round professional fight in Miami on December 19, despite widespread criticism from boxing figures. The former world heavyweight champion, who has not fought since losing to Daniel Dubois last September, is expected to earn at least £50 million for the bout, which will be broadcast on Netflix.
Paul, who holds a 12-1 record, has mostly fought at cruiserweight, giving Joshua a significant size advantage. His only defeat came against Tommy Fury in 2023. Several prominent voices in boxing have condemned the matchup, with Derek Chisora telling Seconds Out: 'If that fight happens, somebody better go to jail. AJ is going to kill him, it's unfair.'
Former WBO champion Joseph Parker told Sky Sports the fight 'doesn't make any sense at all' if Joshua is serious about competing at the top level. Tommy Fury called the bout 'ludicrous', saying: 'Even if AJ had a broken arm, it still wouldn't go past a minute.' Joshua's coach Ben Davison described Paul as 'deluded' for stepping in the ring with 'one of the most dangerous men in the sport'.
Promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed the fight is a professional contest, not an exhibition, with Queensberry rules and 10-ounce gloves. He added that the financial offer was '50 times more' than Joshua's alternative options. The bout has sparked debate over safety and the direction of Joshua's career, with speculation he may face Tyson Fury next year.
