Jake Paul has received some crucial insider advice from Anthony Joshua's former conqueror ahead of their blockbuster heavyweight showdown in Miami this December.
Former Foe Reveals Joshua's Vulnerability
Andy Ruiz Jr, the Mexican star who famously stunned Joshua to claim his heavyweight titles in 2019, has given Paul a clear blueprint for victory. The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces his toughest test yet when he meets the former two-time unified heavyweight champion on December 19 at a Miami venue, with the event streaming live on Netflix.
Ruiz Jr, who dropped Joshua four times during their historic encounter, told TMZ that Paul possesses the tools to cause an upset. "Just get him with the right hand," Ruiz Jr advised. "That's what Jake Paul is lookin' for, the right hand, and if he lands, he can do good damage."
Paul's Confidence Against Joshua's 'Kryptonite'
Despite many boxing experts writing off his chances, Paul maintains a professional record of 12-1, with his sole defeat coming against Tommy Fury two years ago. The 28-year-old American has built his record largely against former UFC stars including Anderson Silva, Tyron Woodley, and Nate Diaz.
Paul believes he's identified significant weaknesses in Joshua's game that he can exploit. "His footwork. His rhythm. His speed and crossing his feet," Paul revealed when analysing Joshua's vulnerabilities. "All of these things are going to have a big play on Friday, December 19."
The social media star turned boxer pointed to Joshua's previous losses against smaller, faster opponents as evidence that he can spring a surprise. "He has lost to guys who are smaller than him. I think it's his weakness. It's his kryptonite," Paul stated, referencing Joshua's defeats against Oleksandr Usyk and Ruiz Jr himself.
Fight Details and Viewing Information
The highly anticipated bout will take place in Miami on December 19, with ring walks expected around 11pm local time (4am UK time). The event marks another major step in Netflix's expansion into live sports broadcasting, following their successful streaming of other combat sports events.
Paul enters the fight following a points victory over boxing veteran Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June, while Joshua represents by far the most established professional boxer Paul has ever faced. Despite Ruiz Jr's advice and Paul's confidence, most boxing analysts still consider Joshua the heavy favourite given his extensive experience at the elite level of heavyweight boxing.
Ruiz Jr added words of encouragement for the underdog, stating: "A lot of people underestimate Jake Paul, but in reality, he's a good fighter, and he's dedicated, and that's what I like about him." Whether that dedication and the advice from Joshua's former conqueror will be enough to overcome the British powerhouse remains to be seen.
