Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua might step into the ring together. The unexpected matchup has moved beyond mere speculation, with real talks happening behind the scenes.
Boxing fans know the sport can throw curveballs. Francis Ngannou knocked down Tyson Fury in a boxing match. Manny Pacquiao could return to fight for a world title at 46. These events show that anything can happen in the squared circle.
Some worry about the size difference between Paul and Joshua. They also point out the gap in experienced competition faced by both fighters. But the fight may be closer to happening than many think.
Nakisa Bidarian, CEO of Most Valuable Promotions, Jake Paul's company, says Paul is dead serious about the bout. He claims Paul doesn't see Joshua as the threat he once was. Bidarian believes the size difference can be managed and that Jake is learning fast and growing. He even suggested Joshua is 'a little long in the tooth'.
"We're in active discussions with Matchroom," Bidarian said. "Jake feels confident about upsetting Anthony Joshua."
Bidarian proposed Wembley Stadium as the venue for the start of 2026.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, hasn't ruled out the possibility. He sees it as a potential tune-up for Joshua before a big fight with Tyson Fury.
Some compare Paul to Francis Ngannou, pointing out that Paul has more boxing experience. But Ngannou was knocked out by Joshua, and Paul hasn't taken a similar risk before.
Paul's confidence seems high, despite the experience gap. At 58, Mike Tyson was older than Joshua when Paul fought him. But Joshua presents a different challenge entirely.
The boxing world watches with interest. Will the YouTuber-turned-boxer step up to face a former heavyweight champion? Only time will tell.
