UPDATE: In a highly anticipated showdown, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul is set to face former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua tonight at the Kaseya Center in Miami. The bout, streamed exclusively on Netflix, marks a pivotal moment for both fighters, with Paul aiming to disrupt the boxing status quo and Joshua looking to reclaim his reputation.
Scheduled for Friday night, this eight-round contest is Paul’s most challenging match to date, pitting him against Joshua, a two-time heavyweight champion with a professional record of 28-4 and 25 KOs. The 36-year-old Joshua enters the ring as the favorite, despite having not fought since he was knocked out in September 2024 by Daniel Dubois.
“The odds are stacked against me,” Paul stated in a press conference earlier this week. “This is going to be the biggest upset in the history of sport.” Standing at 6-foot-6, Joshua has a significant advantage over the 6-foot-1 Paul, including a six-inch reach lead (82-76). Paul’s previous 13 fights have predominantly been against less experienced opponents, making this bout a true test of his skills.
At just 28 years old, Paul holds a record of 12-1 with 7 KOs, having achieved notable victories against fighters like Anderson Silva and Nate Diaz. His unique approach to boxing has attracted millions, but also criticism from traditionalists who question his contributions to the sport.
“No one has done more for boxing in the past decade than myself,” Paul declared, emphasizing his promotional efforts for the event. “If people cared about boxing, they’d want me to win.”
Meanwhile, Joshua acknowledges the weight of expectation on his shoulders. “I’ve been called in to save the purest of boxing,” he remarked, aware that many fans view his bout against Paul as a clash between traditional skill and modern showmanship. Joshua aims to prove his worth and shake off the shadow of his last fight in the U.S., where he suffered a shocking defeat to Andy Ruiz Jr..
As the fight approaches, anticipation builds among fans and analysts alike. Joshua understands the stakes, stating, “If you’re in sports, you may take some losses, but the goal is to bounce back. Through tragedy, there can always be a great story.”
This bout represents more than just a fight; it’s a cultural moment that could redefine perceptions of boxing. Fans from around the globe are expected to tune in, making this a must-watch event that could set records for viewership on Netflix.
Stay tuned as this thrilling contest unfolds. Will Paul pull off the upset, or will Joshua reclaim his dominance? The boxing world is watching closely.
For more updates, follow our live coverage and expert analysis as the action kicks off tonight!
