In a development that has sent shockwaves through the boxing world, social media star–turned–professional boxer Jake Paul is set to meet former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in an eight-round sanctioned bout on December 19 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The contest, which will be fought with 10oz gloves, will stream globally on Netflix, airing in the early hours of December 20 for viewers in the United Kingdom.

From Cancelled Bout to Blockbuster Event

Paul was initially expected to face lightweight champion Gervonta Davis, but those plans were abandoned following legal complications involving Davis. The 28-year-old enters the ring on the heels of his most notable victory to date—a unanimous decision win over former world champion Julio César Chávez Jr. in June—extending his professional record to 12 wins and one defeat.

“This is not an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day,” Paul said. “When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears. Britain’s Goliath gets put to sleep.”

Joshua Eyes a Powerful Comeback

For Joshua, the bout marks his first appearance since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. The British heavyweight, who has previously held the WBA, IBF, and WBO world titles, expressed confidence despite the unconventional nature of the matchup:

“Jake or anyone can get this work. No mercy. I’m here to break records,” Joshua stated.

A Fight Promoters Expect to Make History

Nakisa Bidarian, CEO of Most Valuable Promotions, described the matchup as a defining moment for modern boxing:

“This collision between boxing’s new era and its established royalty will shock the world.”

Meanwhile, Joshua’s longtime promoter Eddie Hearn offered a more cautionary assessment:

“Jake’s bravery will meet reality in Miami.”

A Clash with Major Implications

The event continues Paul’s trend of headline-grabbing crossover contests, following his 2023 victory over former undisputed champion Mike Tyson. As streaming giants such as Netflix further expand into live sports, the fight highlights a rapidly evolving era in boxing—one where viral stardom intersects with traditional heavyweight pedigree under unprecedented global attention.