Anthony Joshua is set to make his comeback in a highly anticipated fight generating a staggering £142 million, marking one of the most controversial matches in boxing history.
The former heavyweight titleholder is scheduled to take on popular YouTube personality Jake Paul in Miami on December 19, broadcasted on Netflix, with the massive prize money to be evenly split between them. However, the fight announcement has sparked immediate backlash, with enraged fans accusing the Olympic gold medalist of prioritizing financial gain over the integrity of the sport, turning boxing into a mere spectacle. The showdown will occur at the Kaseya Centre in an eight-round battle.
This bout replaces Paul’s previously canceled exhibition match against Gervonta Davis, which was called off due to legal issues involving a lawsuit filed by Davis’s ex-partner. The former Disney star, aged 28, affirmed the fight with his signature confidence, stating, “This is not a simulated event. This is Judgment Day. When I defeat Anthony Joshua, all doubts will vanish.”
His bold statements have further fueled criticism within the boxing community. Speculations circulated for weeks, repeatedly dismissed until the confirmation was made today.
Joshua, aged 36, is making his return to the ring since suffering a knockout defeat by Daniel Dubois in September 2024. Anticipating the contentious nature of the fight, the British boxer defended his choice, saying, “I took a break and now I’m back with a huge spectacle. Whether you approve or not, I am here to achieve massive success.” He added, “I am about to dominate the internet with Jake Paul’s defeat.”
The decision to face Paul has divided opinions within the boxing community. Supporters argue that the match mirrors the evolving financial landscape of boxing, influenced by streaming services and celebrity power in matchmaking. Conversely, critics claim that it devalues the sport, prioritizing fame over skill, with many deeming the £142 million prize money as an affront to genuine fighters.
On social media, boxing enthusiasts swiftly criticized Joshua. Cody Banks commented, “Anthony Joshua is finished, battling an individual from Disney, he is cashing out.” Phil Jones remarked, “It’s a regrettable but profitable conclusion to what could have been a much more illustrious career,” while another user posted, “Anthony Joshua’s actions are truly disgraceful.”
One boxing fan expressed, “Anthony Joshua, a former Olympic champion and renowned boxer, is now squaring off against a Disney Channel personality. How has boxing transformed into WWE?” Darren Fursdon added, “Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul signifies a downfall and demonstrates that Boxing is becoming a complete mockery of a sport.”
However, some individuals showed more empathy towards Joshua. Kristian Sturt stated, “I do not blame Anthony Joshua at all; he is securing wealth for generations through what is essentially a glorified sparring session.” Another individual mentioned, “Anthony Joshua might have just pulled off the greatest heist in history.”
Nakisa Bidarian, the CEO of Most Valuable Promotions, the company behind Paul, revealed that the concept was conceived months ago. “Jake came up with this idea in March,” he said. “Initially, people laughed. Plans evolved, and Jake stepped up saying, ‘I want to face Joshua now’.” With Netflix broadcasting the fight globally, it is expected to be a financial success.
The debate over Paul’s entry into elite boxing continues to provoke strong reactions. Rising to fame on YouTube with nearly 21 million followers, he transitioned into boxing, primarily in the cruiserweight division. He weighed 227.5lbs for his 2024 exhibition against the aging Mike Tyson, which attracted an audience of 108 million.
Paul later defeated former world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, earning a number 14 WBA cruiserweight ranking. His professional record stands at 12-1 with seven knockouts, having competed in only 70 rounds since turning professional in 2020.
Comparatively, Joshua boasts a more extensive career. Over 12 years, he has fought in more than 160 rounds, holds a record of 28-4 with 25 knockouts, and has previously unified the heavyweight division. He has headlined major stadiums and global pay-per-view events.
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