Jake Paul has claimed an early psychological victory over Anthony Joshua, revealing he has already beaten the British boxing icon in another sport. The pair are set for a professional heavyweight clash in Miami on Friday, December 19, but Paul says he bested Joshua years ago in a game of laser tag.
The Dubai Laser Tag Duel
The YouTuber-turned-boxer, known as the 'Problem Child', disclosed the story in a recent interview. He stated that the encounter happened in Dubai, shortly after his victory over UFC legend Anderson Silva three years ago. Joshua was in the UAE for training and a break from boxing at the time.
"Speed! I beat him in laser tag when we first met over in Dubai," Paul told The Schmo. "He did not see me coming. I was popping him around the corners, shooting him non stop, eliminated him multiple times, and that is because I am tricky. I am sneaky and I am fast."
Respect Amidst the Rivalry
Despite the playful boast, Joshua has previously shown respect for Paul's unconventional journey in the sport. In an interview with IFL TV, the former two-time heavyweight world champion acknowledged Paul is "good for boxing".
Joshua highlighted Paul's rapid evolution, noting: "He has no amateur background and just jumped straight in. He’s learning under pressure, and that will help him evolve quickly." This mutual respect, however, will be set aside when they meet in the ring later this month.
The Stakes for the Miami Showdown
The fight, confirmed last month after initial reports sent shockwaves through boxing, represents a huge challenge for Paul. Joshua, 36, is looking to re-establish himself as a top heavyweight contender following a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024.
Paul, whose last fight was a decision win over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June, is a significant underdog. Yet, he remains defiantly confident. "No one thinks I’m going to win so join the list and be ready to be shocked," Paul declared. "I know that I have the power and the timing. It's the shots you don't see coming... I think it will be a fourth or fifth-round knockout. I'm ready to die to win this fight."
The event will be streamed live on Netflix, with the main event ring walks expected around 11pm local time in Miami (4am UK time). While Paul holds bragging rights from their laser tag skirmish, the boxing ring on December 19 presents a vastly different and far more dangerous arena.
