Rising boxing prospect Nishant Dev has publicly called for Anthony Joshua to face Jake Paul, arguing that the heavyweight champion could provide a decisive demonstration of professional skill against the YouTuber-turned-boxer.
While Paul recently announced a November bout against Gervonta Davis, Dev believes a fight with Joshua would serve both as a test and as a reality check for Paul’s standing in the sport.
Dev, who fights under the Matchroom banner, spoke with EssentiallySports about the potential matchup. He expressed skepticism regarding Paul’s boxing credentials despite the YouTuber’s growing popularity and success in high-profile fights.
“Anthony Joshua should take this fight because the younger generation believes Jake Paul is a great fighter, but he lacks the experience that comes with real professional boxing,” Dev stated.
He emphasized that unlike most professional boxers, who begin training in childhood, Paul transitioned from entertainment to boxing later in life, facing opponents with limited professional experience.
Highlighting the difference in skill and preparation, Dev argued that Paul has yet to face an opponent of Joshua’s caliber.
“Paul has not fought anyone like Anthony Joshua. A bout with him would show what professional boxing truly requires,” Dev added.
According to Dev, such a contest would likely end in a knockout, demonstrating the gap between Paul’s current abilities and those of elite fighters.
Joshua’s position and negotiation details
Reports indicate that prior to committing to the Davis fight, Paul engaged in discussions with Joshua about a potential matchup. According to promoter Eddie Hearn, the YouTuber proposed an exhibition-style event, which did not align with Joshua’s objectives.
Joshua has consistently sought legitimate professional bouts that would be recorded officially and reflect on his career statistics.
Hearn clarified, “If we take this fight, it’s a real fight. We are not looking at an exhibition. AJ would prepare as if he were facing a world champion and aim to win decisively.” Hearn added that the primary barrier to the fight proceeding is Paul’s willingness to accept these conditions, emphasizing that Joshua is prepared for a sanctioned professional contest.
The contrast between Joshua’s career and Paul’s highlights the distinction between traditional boxing training and celebrity-driven bouts. Joshua, a former world heavyweight champion, has extensive experience and technical proficiency, while Paul’s bouts have been defined largely by high-profile marketing and media attention rather than facing top-tier competition.
A fight between Joshua and Paul would carry significant implications for boxing. Beyond the potential financial rewards, it would serve as a benchmark for evaluating skill versus spectacle in the sport. Dev’s remarks suggest that emerging boxers view celebrity fights as an opportunity to underscore the importance of professional preparation and discipline.
While Paul has shifted focus to a fight with Davis, discussion surrounding a possible Joshua matchup continues within boxing circles. Dev’s comments reflect a perspective shared by many in the professional boxing community: celebrity-driven bouts should not overshadow merit-based competition.
Joshua’s team has confirmed that any future negotiations would prioritize professional standards, ensuring that any potential fight is officially sanctioned and reflects legitimate career stakes. The dialogue around Joshua versus Paul continues to draw attention to the intersection of boxing skill, media influence, and career legitimacy.
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