Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul Confirm Blockbuster Heavyweight Clash
The boxing world is set for a seismic event as former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will face YouTube sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul in a sanctioned professional bout. This highly-debated match-up is scheduled for December 19 in Miami, marking a significant moment for the sport and its broadcasting landscape.
Fight Schedule and UK Viewing Details
The fighters are expected to walk to the ring around 11 PM local Miami time. For fans in the United Kingdom, this translates to a 4 AM start on Saturday, December 20. It is crucial to note that this timing is subject to change based on the duration of the undercard fights, as the event is primarily scheduled for an American television audience.
In a major shift for UK sports broadcasting, the Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul fight will be streamed globally on Netflix. This move means that current Netflix subscribers will not face any additional pay-per-view fees to watch the event. This follows Jake Paul's previous venture with the platform for his controversial bout against Mike Tyson.
The Stakes and The Rules
This is not an exhibition; the fight has been sanctioned as a full professional heavyweight contest. The bout is set for eight three-minute rounds, with both men wearing standard 10oz gloves. One unique stipulation is a weight limit of 245lb, which will force Anthony Joshua to undergo a slight weight cut. This could be a significant factor, as Paul, who has primarily fought at cruiserweight, may face a weight disadvantage of around three stone.
For Joshua, this fight represents a comeback. He has not fought since his surprising fifth-round defeat to British rival Daniel Dubois in September of last year. For Jake Paul, it is an opportunity to silence critics by facing an elite-level champion in his prime, following his victory over the 58-year-old boxing legend Mike Tyson last year.
Fighter Quotes Fuel the Hype
The build-up to the fight has been characterised by bold statements from both camps.
Jake Paul declared: "This isn't an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day... When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears... To the people of the United Kingdom, I am sorry. On Friday, December 19... the torch gets passed and Britain's Goliath gets put to sleep."
Anthony Joshua responded with equal confidence, stating: "Jake or anyone can get this work. No mercy... I'm about to break the internet over Jake Paul's face." Reports suggest Joshua is predicted to earn a staggering £70 million from this blockbuster event.
