TLDR
- Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul are in final negotiations for a heavyweight fight in Miami, scheduled for mid-December on Netflix
- Derek Chisora warned Joshua must finish Paul within three rounds or face questions about his career decline
- The fight talks emerged after Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn mentioned needing a “run-out” fight following AJ’s knockout loss to Daniel Dubois
- Boxing fans are divided, with some viewing it as a legacy-damaging move while others see it as a good tune-up fight
- Two potential dates are being considered: December 12 and December 19
Anthony Joshua is currently in final negotiations to face Jake Paul in a heavyweight boxing match scheduled for December in Miami. The bout would be broadcast on Netflix and marks Joshua’s first fight since his devastating knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024.
Two dates are under consideration for the match: December 12 and December 19. The fight discussions began after Jake Paul’s scheduled November 14 bout with Gervonta Davis was cancelled. Davis became involved in legal trouble when his ex-girlfriend filed a lawsuit accusing him of battery and other charges.
Most Valuable Promotions released a statement confirming the Davis fight would not proceed. The company stated they plan for Paul to headline a Netflix event in 2025, with details about the opponent and location to be announced.
Chisora Issues Stark Warning to Joshua
Derek Chisora delivered a strong warning to Joshua about the potential matchup. Speaking to iFL TV, Chisora said Joshua must finish Paul within three rounds or face serious questions about his abilities. He emphasized that Joshua should approach the fight with complete aggression.
Chisora compared the situation to Joshua’s two-round demolition of Francis Ngannou in March 2024. He stressed that anything beyond three rounds would raise concerns about Joshua’s current form, regardless of the final result.
The heavyweight veteran warned Joshua that losing to Paul would haunt his career forever. He urged the two-time champion to “smoke him” quickly and decisively.
Hearn Comments and Fan Reaction
Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn had mentioned earlier in the week that his fighter needed a “run-out” fight. Hearn stated on Tuesday that a decision would be made about Joshua’s next opponent within the week. He suggested that unless the opponent was Jake Paul, fans might not hear about the fight until fight week arrived.
The news has created a sharp divide among boxing fans. Some supporters believe the fight damages Joshua’s legacy as a former unified heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist. One fan wrote that even a quick victory would tarnish Joshua’s reputation.
Other fans see the matchup differently. They view it as a suitable tune-up fight that could generate strong numbers and help Joshua rebuild momentum. Some praised Paul for having the courage to step into the ring with a powerful heavyweight.
Paul’s Boxing Record and Callout
Jake Paul currently holds a 12-1 professional boxing record with seven knockouts. He has previously called out Joshua, claiming he would beat the former champion. Paul stated on his podcast that Joshua lacks skill and doesn’t have a strong chin.
Joshua has been inactive since his fifth-round knockout loss to Dubois at Wembley Stadium. He also underwent elbow surgery following that defeat. The 28-4 record includes 25 knockouts, demonstrating his power throughout his career.
Paul was initially scheduled to face lightweight champion Gervonta Davis before the legal issues cancelled those plans. Names like Ryan Garcia, Nate Diaz, and Francis Ngannou had also circulated as potential opponents for Paul’s December return.
Official statement from MVP regarding the previously scheduled Jake Paul fight on November, 14th. pic.twitter.com/mZNIa4qtJo
— MVP – Most Valuable Promotions (@MostVpromotions) November 4, 2025
The fight would represent Paul’s biggest challenge yet in terms of opponent credentials. Joshua remains an active heavyweight with world-class power, despite recent setbacks in his career.
