In a stunning prediction that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, heavyweight legend Tyson Fury has boldly forecast a knockout victory for YouTube sensation Jake Paul against former two-time world champion Anthony Joshua.
The Blockbuster Announcement
The highly anticipated bout was officially confirmed for December 19 in Miami, Florida, setting the stage for a Christmas showdown that will be streamed globally on Netflix. The fight represents one of the most unconventional matchups in recent heavyweight history, pitting an established champion against the controversial internet personality turned boxer.
According to fight details, the contest will be staged as a professional heavyweight fight contested over eight three-minute rounds. In an unusual stipulation, Joshua has agreed to a weight limit of 245lb, despite weighing 252lb for his previous two fights against Daniel Dubois and Francis Ngannou.
Fury's Controversial Take
While most boxing experts view this as a routine victory for Joshua, Tyson Fury offered a dramatically different perspective in comments made to the Ring magazine back in July. "I don't know about [it being a] tune-up, I think Jake Paul knocks him out," declared the undefeated heavyweight champion.
Fury elaborated on his surprising prediction, stating "I think that AJ is a spent force, and I think Jake Paul is on the rise. I like his new heavyweight look, he is a bit chubby, a bit bulky, he is getting there." This assessment comes despite Paul's limited experience at heavyweight, with his only previous fight in the division being a decision victory over Mike Tyson in November 2024.
Fighters' Bold Statements
Both combatants have exchanged fiery words since the fight announcement. Paul delivered characteristically bold claims, stating "This isn't an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day. A professional heavyweight fight against an elite world champion in his prime." He added, "When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears, and no one can deny me the opportunity to fight for a world title."
Joshua responded with equal confidence, warning "Jake or anyone can get this work. No mercy." The British star emphasized the commercial appeal of the matchup, noting "I'm here to do massive numbers, have big fights and break every record whilst keeping cool, calm and collected."
The fighters enter with contrasting recent form. Paul secured a points victory over boxing veteran Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June, while Joshua suffered a crushing knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. For UK fight fans, the event presents a late night with ring walks expected around 4am UK time to accommodate the American audience.
