In a move that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, YouTube sensation turned prizefighter Jake Paul has set his sights on one of the sport's most formidable names: Anthony Joshua.
The controversial call-out comes in the wake of the postponement of Paul's highly publicised bout against the legendary Mike Tyson, originally scheduled for July 20th. The fight was delayed after the 57-year-old 'Iron Mike' suffered a medical scare aboard a flight last weekend.
A Bold Proposal For A Blockbuster Fight
Never one to shy away from the spotlight, 'The Problem Child' took to social media with a direct and audacious challenge to the two-time unified heavyweight champion. Paul didn't just ask for a fight; he laid out a detailed, multi-million dollar proposal.
He publicly offered AJ a staggering two-fight deal: one bout in the professional ranks under the official boxing rulebook, and a second blockbuster event under the more exhibition-style Global Ruleset, which features two-minute rounds.
The Stakes: Millions On The Line
Paul's offer is as much about business as it is about boxing. He claims to have generated over $200 million in direct revenue from his pay-per-view events and boasts a significant $40 million sponsorship with betting giant Betr. His proposition to Joshua is simple: a chance to claim a life-changing, eight-figure payday.
"This is the biggest fight of Anthony Joshua's career," Paul stated, displaying his trademark bravado. "He has an opportunity to make more money than he ever has in his entire life."
Joshua's Calm Focus Amidst The Chaos
For his part, the Watford-born powerhouse Anthony Joshua appears to be keeping a cool head. His current focus remains on his scheduled September fight at the iconic Wembley Stadium, with a rematch against fellow Brit Daniel Dubois being the most likely scenario for the coveted IBF world title.
Joshua's promoter, Eddie Hearn, has also poured cold water on the idea, firmly stating that a fight with Paul is "not happening" and that his client's sights are set squarely on regaining a world championship belt.
The Verdict: Spectacle vs. Sport
While the potential clash promises unprecedented financial rewards and global attention, it represents the classic crossover battle between traditional sporting merit and pure entertainment spectacle. Jake Paul continues to disrupt the boxing hierarchy, using his massive online following and shrewd business acumen to challenge the established order.
Whether this potential mega-fight moves beyond a social media storm and into the ring remains to be seen. For now, the boxing world is left to ponder the tantalising, if unlikely, prospect of AJ stepping into the ring with the internet's most famous boxer.
