Jake Paul is reportedly nearing a deal to fight Anthony Joshua, a former unified heavyweight champion. This matchup comes after Paul’s planned exhibition against Gervonta “Tank” Davis fell through. The fight is being targeted for December and is expected to take place in Miami, potentially on Netflix.
Details of the Upcoming Fight
According to Mike Coppinger from Ring Magazine, negotiations between Paul and Joshua are progressing. The heavyweight clash marks a significant leap for Paul, who usually competes at around 200 pounds. In contrast, Joshua typically weighs more than 250 pounds.
Background on Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua
Following the cancellation of his fight against Davis, which was scheduled for this Saturday, Paul indicated he seeks to silence his critics. He expressed that fighting a larger opponent, like Joshua, might be the best way to do so. “People are telling me to fight someone my own size; how about I fight somebody who is bigger than me?” Paul stated while discussing the challenges he anticipates.
This potential bout is garnering interest, particularly since Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, acknowledged the talks are ongoing. Hearn remarked, “If we are going to have a run-out fight, why not run out against Jake Paul for a lot of money?”
Recent Fight Records
- Jake Paul: Coming off a unanimous decision win over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in June.
- Anthony Joshua: Last fought in September 2024, suffering a fifth-round knockout to Daniel Dubois.
Joshua’s history includes a successful stretch before his recent loss, highlighted by a win over former UFC heavyweight champ Francis Ngannou. However, he has not entered the ring for over a year, raising questions about his readiness.
Implications of the Fight
This fight represents a considerable step up for Paul, who is stepping into the heavyweight realm. Fans and critics alike will be keen to see if he can hold his own against a seasoned heavyweight like Joshua. As the December date approaches, anticipation will build, with many wondering if Paul has taken on more than he can handle.
