Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul? Boxing’s Potential Showdown

In a matchup that has boxing fans both divided and captivated, the idea of former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua facing YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul is quickly shifting from wild rumor to genuine possibility.

Purists scoff at the thought, calling it a blatant mismatch, yet the commercial appeal is undeniable. Paul’s manager has confirmed that talks are underway, with early 2026 as the target date. This comes hot on the heels of Paul’s surprising victories over Mike Tyson and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., followed by his bold challenge to the two-time world champion.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has labeled the matchup “bizarre” and “extremely dangerous” for Paul, predicting that Joshua would “evaporate” the younger fighter. Still, he admits the fight could smash commercial records, potentially becoming Joshua’s most lucrative payday—perhaps even a “cash-out” bout to cap off his career.

Paul’s camp, however, seems convinced they can pull off the upset, pointing to speculation that Joshua’s punch resistance has faded. The prospect of a powerful, world-class heavyweight squaring off against a crossover star who built his boxing résumé against older, less active opponents is a recipe for massive public intrigue.

Some fans hope the fight never leaves the negotiation table. Others are already picturing the spectacle: Could Paul stun the world with an unthinkable upset? Or will Joshua deliver a crushing reminder of the gap between a seasoned champion and a celebrity-turned-boxer?

One thing is certain—the conversation is heating up, and the boxing world is watching closely to see if this bizarre, dangerous, and potentially record-breaking fight becomes reality.