Unexpectedly, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul has challenged two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, suggesting a 2026 showdown. “2026,” Joshua’s short reply, has sparked debates among boxing enthusiasts.

This hypothetical fight raises questions about the expanding environment of boxing and the consequences of such crossover matches.

Jake Paul’s Challenge

With an 11-1 record and noteworthy wins, including a contentious victory over Mike Tyson in November 2024 that drew over 100 million Netflix subscribers, 28-year-old boxer Jake Paul has made tremendous progress. Paul’s assurance is clear from what he said on his podcast:

“I want to fight Anthony Joshua because I know I’ll f**king beat his ass. He doesn’t have a chin, he has no skill and he’s stiff.”

Anthony Joshua’s Response

Currently recuperating from a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in 2024, Anthony Joshua answered Paul’s challenge with the single word, “2026.”

This response, which was shared via a screenshot of a phone conversation with Paul, shows that Joshua is amenable to the proposed fight.

Eddie Hearn’s perspective

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has stated that he is willing to consider the idea, highlighting the possibility of a big event:

“AJ would fight Jake Paul. He’d fight anyone to be honest with you. If Jake Paul wants to step up and fight Anthony Joshua, he’ll need the relevant insurance.”

Hearn also questioned the proposed timeline, suggesting that if Paul is serious, the fight should occur sooner:

“The only thing that was disappointing was he says 2026… Do it in 2025 if you really want to do it.”

Boxing Community’s Reaction

Reactions from the boxing community have been varied. Amir Khan and former champion Carl Froch have expressed worries about the meeting, with Khan saying:

“He [Jake Paul] doesn’t have a chin, he has no skill and he’s stiff.”

On the other hand, some fans think Paul might be a real threat to Joshua, citing his sparring sessions.

Possible Consequences

Joshua vs. Paul would represent a significant crossover event that would combine traditional boxing with the new phenomenon of celebrity bouts.

While purists may question the legitimacy, the commercial appeal is undeniable, potentially drawing a vast audience and generating substantial revenue.

Conclusion

As discussions continue, the proposed fight between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul encapsulates the evolving dynamics of boxing.

Whether viewed as a genuine sporting contest or a spectacle, it underscores the sport’s shifting landscape and the growing influence of non-traditional athletes in the boxing arena.