What began as an eye-catching proposal seems to be falling apart before it even reaches the ring. The idea of a fight between former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and influencer and up-and-coming boxer Jake Paul had gained momentum, after being backed by Turki Alalshikh. However, recent statements from Joshua’s trainer Ben Davison and promoter Eddie Hearn have completely cooled the enthusiasm.
Davison, speaking to Boxing Scene, was blunt: “How can people even talk about this? It’s a safety issue. Jake Paul could get seriously hurt,” he said. His concern is not unfounded. Paul’s track record, having never faced an active professional boxer, does not support him stepping into the ring against a former elite champion
Jake Paul receives a flurry of warnings
Davison’s statements go beyond skepticism: he warns of a real risk. “This type of fight could force a reevaluation of the sport… but only after a tragedy occurs,” he lamented. His message is aimed directly at the bodies that might sanction an unequal fight like this.
This type of fight could force a reevaluation of the sport… but only after a tragedy occurs
Eddie Hearn also joined the cautionary wave. In an interview with Boxing Social, the Matchroom boss clarified that Jake Paul is asking for $40 million to accept the fight, a figure that Hearn described as “unrealistic”. He also made it clear that he does not believe that the YouTuber has any real intention of getting into the ring with Joshua: “I don’t trust him to take the fight. Francis Ngannou would destroy him, and AJ would be out of the question”.
Joshua doesn’t need this show
Despite the media attention, voices within British boxing agree that this fight is unnecessary and potentially detrimental to both parties. Derek Chisorapraised Paul for attracting a new audience, but advised him to stay away from Joshua: “He would destroy him,” he warned bluntly.
The young boxer Rolly Romero surprised by saying that Paul could knock out Joshua, which revived the debate on social networks about the seriousness of this possible crossover. Despite this, everything indicates that Joshua’s return in December will be with another more legitimate opponent.
Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua have big differences
As the media smoke clears, it is clear that a showdown between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua would be more of a mockery than a fair competition. The physical, technical and experience differences make this fight, beyond its commercial appeal, an unnecessary risk
The words of Ben Davison and Eddie Hearn not only dampen expectations, but also refocus on real boxing. Joshua will continue his path in the elite, while Paul will have to choose his battles more wisely if he wants to stay in the sport with some credibility.
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