Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua: A Potential Boxing Clash

London, Nov 13 (AP) Jake Paul might soon face the most demanding challenge of his boxing journey — a match against former world heavyweight titleholder Anthony Joshua.

Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, verified on Thursday the circulating media speculations that discussions have occurred with Paul's team. Hearn is earnestly attempting to arrange what he referred to as a "small run-out" for Joshua before the year ends.

"He's been out of the ring for nearly a year and a half," Hearn mentioned on BBC radio, speaking about Joshua, a two-time world champion who last fought when he lost to Daniel Dubois in an IBF title bout in September 2024. "If he receives several tens of millions to end his wait to fight and we get a chance to silence this guy that's annoyed the boxing community for a long time, then maybe. Maybe. A lot of work to do."

Paul, a YouTuber-turned-boxer, boasts a 12-1 record with 7 knockouts and last competed in June, defeating former middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr. by unanimous decision. A month afterward, Paul entered the World Boxing Association cruiserweight rankings, implying a weight increase would be necessary to face Joshua.

"Definitely not agreed yet," acknowledged Hearn, who conceded that labeling Paul merely a "YouTuber" would be "a little bit harsh" considering Paul's boxing achievements. Hearn emphasized that Joshua's primary objective is to regain his form to rejuvenate his career, aiming for a scheduled fight with fellow British former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, who is currently retired, by 2026.

"The focus for us really is 2026 and that is a big fight in February or March and then Tyson Fury," stated Hearn. "We want the real stuff, but we want the business as well." Jake Paul had a scheduled fight with lightweight champion Gervonta Davis on Nov. 14, which was canceled last week. (AP)

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