In a stunning development, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul is reportedly on the verge of signing a deal to face former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in a boxing matchup slated for December in Miami. The fight, if confirmed, would mark one of the most audacious crossovers in combat sports history, pitting the social media sensation against a two-time world titleholder.
Sources close to the negotiations indicate that the bout is being finalized after Paul’s previously scheduled exhibition against WBA lightweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis collapsed. Paul, known for his brash persona and string of victories against non-traditional opponents, has been seeking a marquee name to elevate his profile further. Joshua, the 36-year-old British powerhouse, emerges as an unexpected but formidable challenger, bringing his 6-foot-6 frame and over 250 pounds of muscle to the ring against the lighter, 28-year-old Paul.
The proposed fight would be broadcast live on Netflix, continuing the streaming giant’s foray into live sports events. Insiders suggest the event could take place in Miami, Florida, adding a tropical flair to what promises to be a spectacle blending entertainment and athleticism. Turki Alalshikh, a prominent figure in boxing promotions, has publicly stated that Paul has accepted the challenge against Joshua, fueling speculation about the financial incentives involved.
Joshua, who has been on a 14-month hiatus following his last bout, would enter as a heavy favorite due to his professional pedigree and size advantage. Standing at 6-6 and routinely tipping the scales at 250 pounds, the Olympic gold medalist has faced criticism for potentially stooping to this level, but reports hint at a lucrative payday—possibly upwards of $50 million—that could lure him away from his current broadcasting deal with DAZN. Boxing analyst Gareth A. Davies expressed surprise at the matchup, noting, “I’m really shocked that [Anthony Joshua] would take a fight with [Jake Paul]. On the other hand, if he’s earning $50 million to go to Netflix… you probably wouldn’t say no to it.”
Paul, for his part, has built a controversial career by defeating aging MMA stars and fellow influencers, but a win over Joshua could silence doubters and cement his legitimacy in the sport. Critics, however, question whether the fight would be sanctioned as a professional contest, with some speculating it might lean toward exhibition status. Social media is already ablaze with reactions, from fans hailing Paul’s boldness to skeptics decrying the bout as a farce.
As details continue to emerge, the boxing community awaits official confirmation. If the deal holds, this December showdown could redefine the boundaries between celebrity spectacle and elite competition, drawing millions to Netflix screens worldwide.
Muki is a long time boxing fan and enjoys Mixed Martial Arts. He has been writing boxing articles since he was a teen and his favorite fighters of the past are Muhammad Ali, Mike Tyson, Prince Naseem Hamed. Favorite MMA fighters are Khabib Nurmagomedov, Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva and Fedor Emelianenko.