Former world champion Anthony Joshua can’t stay away. The 36-year-old is returning to the boxing ring for a fight against YouTube star Jake Paul.
Former boxing world champion Anthony Joshua is returning to the ring to fight YouTuber Jake Paul. Joshua’s promotional company, Matchroom Boxing, announced on Monday that the fight is scheduled to take place on December 19 in Miami. Joshua last fought in September 2024, losing a world championship fight against his British compatriot Daniel Dubois by knockout in the fifth round.
Joshua, now 36, has been fighting for years to return to the top of the world rankings. He was once the heavyweight world champion from 2016 to 2019 and from 2019 to 2021.
Victory against Klitschko marks breakthrough
In Germany, he became known primarily for his victory over Wladimir Klitschko in 2017. The fight against Paul is scheduled to take place over eight three-minute rounds and will be broadcast on Netflix.
Meanwhile, internet celebrity Paul is trying to gain a foothold in the boxing business. He has a total of twelve wins and one loss.
Paul last fought a ten-round bout against Julio César Chávez Jr. in June and won on points. This keeps him on track for success in his still young professional career.
The 28-year-old caused a sensation in November last year with his victory over boxing icon Mike Tyson.
Paul challenged Joshua months ago
Even before the canceled fight with Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Paul had named his desired opponent in a Netflix interview: “Anthony Joshua,” he replied clearly when asked who he wanted to face next.
“This isn’t an AI simulation. This is decision day,” Paul said. “A professional heavyweight fight against an elite world champion in his prime. If I defeat Anthony Joshua, all doubts will disappear, and no one can deny me the chance to fight for the world title.”
