The bout, which people could barely accept, concluded as everyone anticipated.
Former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua knocked out the YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul on Friday evening, apparently shattering the American’s jaw.
The predictable outcome in the ring starkly contrasted with the spectacle that surrounded it, renewing questions about the future of boxing as a professional sport.
In many ways, it was a night of contrasts.
First, physically. Paul could never best Joshua; this was evident when they stood side-by-side during the weigh-in.
The Brit towered five inches over his opponent and weighed nearly 30 pounds more after the official weigh-in on Thursday. Even before the fight, it was clear Paul couldn’t contend at heavyweight.
Then you consider the experience. Joshua has been among the finest boxers globally for the last decade, while Paul, debuting just five years ago, gained fame battling opponents well past their prime.
Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul during their heavyweight contest.
Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul during their heavyweight contest. JC Ruiz/PA Images/Getty Images
Despite the stark mismatch, Paul told the world he could cause an upset. Ultimately, he received a very real and painful reality check.
“It was good,” Paul stated, spitting blood from his mouth during the post-fight ringside interview.
“A nice little shot from one of the best ever to do it. I appreciate it very much.”
What transpired in the fight?
Paul’s game plan was apparent from the start and certainly clever.
The American did his utmost to evade Joshua, weaving and circling the large ring while keeping clear of the thunderous blows.
The strategy certainly succeeded in the opening two rounds, with Paul defying many expectations for an early knockout.
But while the slighter man tried to stay secure, spectators hardly witnessed the promised action. Paul attempted occasional overhand rights directly at Joshua, but the Brit seemed almost unfazed.
This once more exposed the issue with these crossover fights, which fuel massive buildup before fans are left watching lackluster contests.
At one point, the referee had to encourage the pair to engage, with Paul still maintaining distance and fleeing danger.
Like millions watching at home, Joshua grew irritated. But as the rounds wore on, Paul began to tire. Gradually, Joshua managed to close the gap and started landing flush shots.
An uppercut in the fifth round appeared to stun Paul, but the American fell to a knee and tumbled near his opponent’s feet, suddenly sensing the end.
The fifth round concluded with Paul wobbling around the ring, Joshua’s punches pushing his adversary off the ropes. Finally, this was the brawl many had come to witness.
Then, in the sixth round, Paul found himself cornered, hands down, presenting his chin on a platter for Joshua.
The Brit did precisely what was expected—a powerful right hook that sent Paul to the canvas.
Paul’s expression following the first clean shot from Joshua spoke volumes—he no longer desired it, and who could blame him?
By the time the referee counted to 10, Paul made little effort to rise in time and seemed somewhat relieved when the bout was waved off.
American boxer and influencer Jake Paul will face British boxer Anthony Joshua in a non-title heavyweight bout.
American boxer and influencer Jake Paul will face British boxer Anthony Joshua in a non-title heavyweight bout. Giorgio Viera/AFP/Getty Images
The pair embraced center ring, with Paul still spitting blood.
“It took a little longer than anticipated, but the right hand finally found its home,” Joshua commented after the bout.
“Jake Paul did well today. I’m going to give him credit. He got up again and again. I respect Jake for trying and trying. He met a real fighter today.”
What’s next?
For Paul, recuperation is necessary.
The 28-year-old boxer ended up in the hospital after the fight, writing on Instagram that he sustained a “double fracture of the jaw”—photos of the injury appear to substantiate this claim.
“Surgery went well, thanks for all the love and support. Two titanium plates on each side. Some teeth removed. Only liquids for 7 days,” Paul posted on Instagram, sharing a picture of himself sitting in a hospital bed.
Before the bout, he said he had nothing to lose and everything to gain. In that, he was correct.
He surprised people with his toughness and displayed heart until the very end, proving he is more than just a YouTuber, even if far from an elite boxer.
For Joshua, it is back to competing with peers at his level.
A match with Tyson Fury in 2026 still seems the target, but first, he needs to coax the Brit out of retirement.
If anything, Friday’s fight showed Joshua is still short of his peak form, but it was a step in the proper direction.
For boxing, it’s another moment to pause.
Purists do not want these manufactured fights to become the sport’s future, but when the financial reward from a Jake Paul bout is so substantial, more professional boxers will surely seek a piece of the pie.
And while Netflix’s viewership figures are not public yet, one would surmise they will seek another crossover clash to continue their foray into live sports.
More importantly, Paul will likely return. And wherever the American goes, global attention inevitably follows.
Only next time, for the sake of boxing, he might be fighting someone on his own tier.
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