Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul are finally stepping into the ring together.
The long-rumored matchup is now official, with both fighters agreeing to an eight-round heavyweight bout in Miami on December 19.
Joshua, a former unified heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist, is returning for the first time since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. At 36, he remains one of the sport’s biggest draws.
Paul, 28, comes in with a 12-1 record and wins over former champions like Mike Tyson and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. But facing Joshua will be the toughest and biggest test of his career so far.
Paul was his usual bold self.
“This isn’t an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day,” he said. “When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears.”
Joshua fired back with his own confidence.
“Jake or anyone can get this work. No mercy. I’m here to break records and I’m about to break the internet over Jake Paul’s face.”
The fight will be under full heavyweight rules with 10-ounce gloves. One unusual clause limits Joshua to 245 pounds, a weight he has exceeded in recent years.
The showdown replaces Paul’s planned bout with Gervonta “Tank” Davis, which was canceled due to Davis’ legal troubles.
The bout takes place at the Kaseya Center in Miami, and the money involved is expected to be massive. Still, several boxing veterans are warning that Paul is taking a huge risk stepping in against a proven knockout puncher like Joshua.
