Anthony Joshua set for surprise comeback fight against Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua set for surprise comeback fight against Jake Paul

Two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua could make a shock return to the ring before the end of the year in a proposed bout against American YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul.

Joshua, 34, has not fought since suffering a fifth-round knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024 — a loss that halted his progress under trainer Ben Davison and stalled his bid for another world title.

Reports from the United States suggest the former unified champion is close to finalising a December fight in Miami against Paul, who has gained attention in recent years for his transition from social media to professional boxing.

Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed that discussions are ongoing and that a decision on the comeback fight will be made this week.

“We will make a decision this week in terms of if he will fight this year. We have to decide by this weekend basically,” Hearn told Sky Sports.

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He described the possible bout as “bizarre but good for him,” noting that it would not be driven by financial motives. “There’s no money in the fight. We’re not going to start using him to sell tickets. Literally, he will just pop up on a show,” Hearn said. “He’s really up for it. I’d love him to go in there and just smash someone up.”

Paul, 28, was defeated by Tommy Fury — brother of world champion Tyson Fury — in 2023, before returning last year to claim an eight-round win over boxing legend Mike Tyson. He had been lined up for a November exhibition fight against Gervonta Davis, but that was cancelled following a civil lawsuit against the WBA lightweight champion.

Joshua’s possible return fight is seen as a tune-up to rebuild momentum heading into 2025. His loss to Dubois ended a run of four consecutive wins following back-to-back defeats to Oleksandr Usyk in 2021 and 2022.

Hearn said Joshua remains motivated and active in training. “He’s in the gym, he’s focused and he wants to fight. It’s just about getting him back in rhythm,” he added.

If finalised, the clash with Jake Paul would mark Joshua’s first fight in 14 months and could serve as a springboard for another major bout next year.

Anthony Joshua set for surprise comeback fight against Jake Paul

Skynews