Anthony Joshua Delivers Crushing Sixth-Round Knockout Over Jake Paul in Miami Thriller
The bout, scheduled for eight rounds, drew massive attention as Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) returned following a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, aiming to reassert dominance against the brash Paul (12-2, 7 KOs), who had won six straight since his 2023 split decision defeat to Tommy Fury[3]. Joshua admitted post-fight it “wasn’t the best performance,” but the result was decisive: a devastating right hand that left Paul unable to rise before the referee’s count of 10[1][2].
Early Rounds: Paul’s Evasive Tactics Frustrate Joshua
Paul entered with his signature flair, sporting sunglasses and accompanied by a rap artist during his ring walk, exuding bravado despite visible nerves at the bell[1]. He backpedaled through the first round, frustrating Joshua’s attempts to land his signature power punches[1].
In the third, Paul landed a cheeky uppercut, and a looping hook in the fourth briefly embarrassed the 36-year-old Briton, though it caused more surprise than damage[1]. Joshua, struggling to cut off the ring, even issued a low blow that left Paul wincing[1].
Joshua Turns the Tide in Rounds Five and Six
Paul’s resistance crumbled in the fifth as Joshua unleashed a flurry, dropping him to the canvas for an eight-count. The bell saved Paul as Joshua pressed with spiteful punches[1].
The sixth round proved fatal. Paul wilted under pressure, toppling after an exchange. He clambered up only for Joshua to trap him in the corner, landing a chopping right followed by a bomb of a right hand. Paul beat one count but couldn’t rise again before the referee waved it off[1][2]. Highlights show Paul knocked down four times total, his hands dropping as fatigue set in[3][4].
Post-Fight Reactions and Context
Speaking to Netflix in the ring, Joshua reflected: “The goal was to get Jake Paul out and hurt him.” He credited Paul’s resilience, noting critics who predicted a first-round stoppage were proven wrong as it went six rounds[1][4].
Paul suffered his second career loss and first by knockout, a stark contrast to his recent unanimous decision over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in June. The fight stemmed from a canceled November exhibition against Gervonta “Tank” Davis due to legal issues[3].
“You know, I give Jake Paul credit for stepping in there in the first place, going six rounds.” – Joshua post-fight[4]
Broader Implications for Both Fighters
For Joshua, the win provides momentum after title losses to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022, and the Dubois defeat. At 36, he showed predatory instincts late, though his early struggles against a novice raised questions about ring rust[1][3].
Paul, the social media influencer turned boxer, faced heavy criticism for mismatched opponents but demonstrated durability, surviving into the championship rounds against a heavyweight legend. His record now reflects the challenges of transitioning from YouTube to elite pugilism[2][3].
The event, streamed live, captivated global audiences, blending combat sports with influencer culture. Co-main events included Alycia Baumgardner securing a victory, adding to the card’s appeal[3].
What’s Next?
Joshua hinted at bigger challenges ahead, while Paul vowed to rebound. This mismatch-turned-marathon underscores boxing’s allure: unpredictability even against the odds[1][2].
Additional reporting from Sky Sports, CBS Sports, ESPN, and ESPN Ringside highlights[1][2][3][4].