New York: In a surprising development that could become one of the most-watched crossover fights of the year, former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is reportedly close to agreeing to a December showdown against YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, according to multiple media outlets on Wednesday.
Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion, has been out of the ring since September 2024, when he suffered a knockout loss to fellow Briton Daniel Dubois. The defeat abruptly halted the momentum he had built under trainer Ben Davison, delaying his plans to return to world title contention.
His promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed earlier this week that a decision on Joshua’s return fight was imminent.
“We will decide this week whether he will fight this year. We have to make that decision by the weekend,” Hearn stated.
Jake Paul Turns Focus to Joshua After Gervonta Davis Fight Falls Apart
Jake Paul, who rose to boxing fame after transitioning from YouTube, had been in negotiations to face undefeated American star Gervonta Davis. However, that fight collapsed after a civil lawsuit was filed against Davis.
Paul now appears set to shift his attention toward a high-profile clash with Joshua, a matchup that has stunned both boxing purists and casual fans.
Paul carries a 12–1 professional record, with his only loss coming via split decision to Tommy Fury in 2023. He fought at heavyweight just once — securing a points win over 58-year-old Mike Tyson in November 2024.
Joshua’s Career at a Crossroads
Now 36, Joshua’s illustrious career includes an Olympic gold medal (2012) and a rapid rise in the professional ranks. He first captured the IBF heavyweight title in 2016, later adding the WBA and WBO belts, establishing himself as the unified world champion.
His journey has included:
A stunning upset loss to Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019
A dominant revenge victory later that year
Successful defences, including against Kubrat Pulev
Consecutive losses to current undisputed champion Oleksandr Usyk
Before his setback against Dubois at Wembley Stadium, Joshua had put together four straight victories, prompting hope of another championship run. His professional record currently stands at 28 wins (25 KOs) and 4 losses.
Joshua vs. Paul: A Blockbuster in the Making
If finalised, the Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight is expected to headline a December event in Miami, instantly becoming one of the biggest crossover matchups in modern boxing. Joshua’s power and pedigree against Paul’s celebrity-driven momentum promise a spectacle with enormous commercial appeal.
Fans now await official confirmation, expected within days.
