In a clash that has captivated the sporting world, social media sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul will step into the ring tonight against two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua. The blockbuster bout, which many are billing as the most audacious crossover event in boxing history, takes place in Miami, Florida.
Fight Details and Official Rules
The contest is a fully sanctioned, professional heavyweight boxing match, dispelling any rumours of a scripted spectacle. The fight is scheduled for eight rounds, each lasting three minutes. Both combatants will wear 10oz gloves, and crucially, knockouts are permitted as in any standard professional bout.
Anthony Joshua, known for his devastating power, has secured 25 of his 28 professional wins by knockout. Jake Paul, while less experienced, has also demonstrated significant stopping power, with seven stoppages in his 13-fight career.
Weight Limits and Event Logistics
There were specific stipulations for the fighters' weights. Jake Paul, who weighed a career-heaviest 227.2lbs for a previous fight, faced no upper limit. Anthony Joshua, however, was given a weight cap of 245lbs. At Thursday's official weigh-in, Joshua came in comfortably under at 243.4lbs.
For UK fans, the main event ring walk is expected at around 4am on Saturday morning. The entire card, including the underdog, will be streamed live and exclusively on Netflix, available to all subscribers at no extra cost.
Expert Analysis and Fight Prediction
Despite Jake Paul's confidence and marked improvement, the consensus within the boxing community is that the gulf in class and experience is simply too vast. Former world champion Anthony Crolla provided a stark prediction when speaking to Metro.
"I think the first jab he feels, he's going to think, 'oh my days! What's going on here?'" Crolla stated. "I'll be absolutely shocked if this goes into the third round. I believe it will be all over within two."
Crolla suggested that Joshua, returning after a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, will be looking to make a definitive statement. With major plans for 2026, anything less than a dominant victory would be considered a setback for the former Olympian.
The result of tonight's fight will count on the official professional records of both men. Whether it ends in a win, loss, or draw, this high-stakes encounter in Miami will be a permanent entry in the annals of boxing history.
