Jake Paul Faces Ultimate Test Against Heavyweight Legend Anthony Joshua in Miami Showdown
December 19, 2025
In a clash billed as Judgment Day, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul steps into the ring against former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua tonight at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The professional heavyweight bout, scheduled for eight three-minute rounds with 10-ounce gloves, streams live worldwide on Netflix, marking one of the most anticipated and controversial matchups in recent boxing history.
From Announcement to Weigh-In: The Road to Ringside
The fight was officially announced on November 17, following the cancellation of Paul’s planned exhibition against Gervonta Davis due to legal issues involving Davis. Originally eyed for spring 2026, the bout materialized quickly after Paul began calling out Joshua as early as March 2025. Promoted by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), the event promises a purse reported at $184 million, underscoring its massive commercial appeal.
Prior buildup saw Joshua, who returned to the ring after considering bouts with Tony Yoka, dismiss influencer boxing but ultimately sign on. Paul hyped the fight with bold statements, declaring, “This isn’t an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day… When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears.” He likened his potential upset to Andy Ruiz’s 2019 victory over Joshua, touting his speed, footwork, and resilience despite being the smaller fighter at cruiserweight.
The weigh-in on December 18 at the Jackie Gleason Theater at The Fillmore Miami turned intense. Joshua, making weight for the first time in his career at 243.4 pounds—his lightest since his 2021 loss to Oleksandr Usyk—joked, “I can’t wait to eat.” Paul tipped the scales at 216.6 pounds. A heated staredown ensued, with Joshua warning, “I’m a serious fighter. You’re going to get f—– up,” while standing beside promoter Eddie Hearn, quipping that Hearn helped launch Paul’s career only to bring Joshua in to end it.
Fighters’ Profiles: Polar Opposites Collide
Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul, 28, enters as boxing’s polarizing disruptor. The former cruiserweight has built a rapid, controversial ascent with high-profile wins, including his Netflix-streamed 2024 bout against Mike Tyson. This represents his most dangerous test yet, moving up to heavyweight against a seasoned elite.
Anthony “AJ” Joshua, 36, is an Olympic gold medalist and two-time WBO, WBA, and IBF heavyweight champion. Known for devastating power, Joshua boasts victories in stadium headliners and a first-round knockout of Francis Ngannou in 2024. He enters as a DraftKings 12-1 favorite, vowing a decisive win without mercy, stating it’s not personal but a mismatch where he’ll end Paul’s career.
Criticism and Stakes: Circus or Legitimate Spectacle?
The matchup has drawn sharp criticism from pundits. British boxer Dave Allen called it “ridiculous, it’s a joke,” while Guardian commentator Donald McRae dubbed it a “circus fight,” warning of potential injury to Paul. Detractors highlight the size and experience gap: Joshua’s heavyweight pedigree versus Paul’s influencer roots.
Yet, for fans, it’s a spectacle blending modern entertainment with boxing royalty. Doors open at 4:00 PM, with the main event starting around 5:00 PM local time. Netflix subscribers access it free, positioning Miami as the epicenter of boxing’s debated future. Paul seeks to silence doubters and earn a world title shot; Joshua aims to reaffirm dominance.
Event Details and Global Reach
The Kaseya Center hosts this sanctioned pro bout, Paul’s second Netflix headliner. Joshua’s lightest weigh-in since 2021 signals serious preparation, contrasting his 2013 debut at 229 pounds. Paul, confident despite odds, promises to put Britain’s “Goliath to sleep.”
“To all my haters, this is what you wanted. To the people of the United Kingdom, I am sorry.” – Jake Paul
As gloves touch and the bell rings, all eyes turn to whether Paul’s bravado meets Joshua’s power. Win or lose, this fight redefines boxing’s boundaries, streamed to millions under Miami lights.