Former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua will return to the ring on December 19 in a high-profile professional bout against YouTube star–turned–boxer Jake Paul.
The fight, scheduled for the Kaseya Center in Miami, will be streamed live on Netflix and will feature eight three-minute rounds.
This matchup comes as a replacement for Paul, who was initially set to face Gervonta Davis in an exhibition fight earlier this month. That event was cancelled following a lawsuit filed against Davis by his former partner.
Paul, 28, described the bout as a defining moment in his boxing career. “This isn’t an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day,” he declared. “When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears, and no one can deny me a world title shot. To all my haters, this is what you wanted.”
Rumours of a Joshua-Paul fight were initially dismissed, but the British heavyweight has opted to take on the American star in what will be his first fight since his knockout loss to then-IBF champion Daniel Dubois in September 2024.
Joshua, 36, said he is eager to return in a major event.
“I took some time out, and I’m coming back with a mega show. It’s a big opportunity for me,” the former two-time unified champion said.
“Whether you like it or not, I’m here to do massive numbers, have big fights and break every record while staying cool, calm and collected. Mark my words, you’ll see more fighters take these opportunities in the future. I’m about to break the internet over Jake Paul’s face.”
More details are expected soon.
