Anthony Joshua, Jake Paul Near Advanced Fight Talks for 2026

Anthony Joshua is in advanced talks to fight YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul, with promoters and insiders suggesting this matchup could be one of the biggest pay-per-view events and potentially Joshua's most lucrative fight. Despite Joshua's size and experience advantage as a former two-time heavyweight champion, Jake Paul is confident and has been gaining respect for his boxing achievements, though he remains a smaller opponent. Promoter Eddie Hearn emphasized the seriousness of the fight, warning that Jake Paul will face the best version of Joshua, and that this is a major step up from Paul's previous bouts. Matchroom CEO Frank Smith stated that the Joshua-Paul fight is commercially bigger than a potential all-UK clash with Tyson Fury, though the latter remains a significant possibility in the future. One logistical challenge is the sanctioning of the fight, as the British Boxing Board of Control might not approve, making a U.S. venue more likely. The fight is expected to happen in early 2026 and represents a significant moment for both fighters, blending traditional heavyweight boxing prestige with the new wave of celebrity boxing draws.