Jake Paul versus Anthony Joshua? Eddie Hearn believes it’s a possibility.
The Matchroom Boxing chairman addressed Paul’s recent comments about a potential fight with Joshua, where Paul claimed he would “f*cking beat Anthony Joshua’s ass.” Joshua, a former two-time heavyweight champion, is looking for his next significant fight after a knockout victory over Daniel Dubois. Hearn indicates that if Paul’s team is serious, they are also willing to consider it.
“To be honest, I think Jake Paul against Anthony Joshua—for me, we’d do it for the banter,” Hearn stated on Matchroom Boxing’s YouTube channel. “ ‘A.J.’ would fight Jake Paul. He’d fight anyone to be honest with you. If Jake Paul wants to step up and fight Anthony Joshua, he’ll need the relevant insurance.”
“The only disappointing thing was him mentioning 2026. That’s like me saying, ‘L.A. Olympics for surfing in 2028, I’ll be there.’ If you really want to do it, do it in 2025. You’re not going to improve much more at this point. I’m not sure. Those two have communicated, and I spoke to A.J. this morning. He said, ‘Listen, of course I’d fight him.’”
Paul, known as a YouTuber and social media influencer who has transitioned into a prominent figure in boxing, is also seeking a high-profile fight following his widely publicized match against 58-year-old legend Mike Tyson last November. That event, streamed live on Netflix, achieved record viewership and significant mainstream attention.
Hearn expressed his willingness to work with Paul and confidence in Joshua’s agreement.
“We know Jake generates massive events,” Hearn added. “It’s guaranteed to attract incredible viewership, and with all due respect to Jake Paul, it should be a relatively straightforward night’s work. However, I appreciate him calling out Canelo [Alvarez] and others. A.J. is another major challenge. If they are serious, why not consider it?”
Joshua has not yet publicly responded to Paul’s remarks, making Hearn his unofficial spokesperson for the time being. Hearn conveyed that Joshua is prepared to return to the ring, regardless of the opponent.
“[Joshua] said, ‘Why not?’” Hearn recounted. “I asked, ‘What should I say when asked about it?’ He replied, ‘Tell everyone I’ll fight anyone, anytime, it’s not a problem for me.’”
