Hearn on Joshua vs. Jake Paul: “If They Really Want It—The Fight Will Happen”

Head of Matchroom Boxing Eddie Hearn weighed in on a potential clash between his charge Anthony Joshua and influencer-boxer Jake Paul.

“It’s very real. I had a good conversation with Nakisa (Jake Paul’s business partner) on Wednesday, July 30—it lasted about an hour—and I genuinely believe they want this fight.

Nakisa was candid—he’s worried about the risks, but Jake truly believes he can win or at least be competitive. Given the scale of the event, I’d say the chances are pretty high. If I had to put a number on it, I’d say 50–50. The conversation was very positive and we expect to pick it up in the coming weeks. If they want it, the fight will happen.

The weight difference won’t be critical. On fight night Jake will be within heavyweight limits. But look—even I can’t fully justify it. It’s a mismatch, a dangerous one. You’ve got a cruiserweight turning into a heavyweight.

I don’t think AJ has realised yet that this is genuinely possible. After that call, I’m convinced it is. AJ understands the commercial side of boxing. This would be a gigantic fight—maybe the biggest earner of his career. We can talk about the boxing world, but this goes beyond it.

I told Nakisa there’s a fear factor to the idea. It’s unsafe. It’s like watching David Blaine—only far more real and risky. You’re not climbing out of a box in three minutes; you’re in a ring with one of the most dangerous punchers ever. This isn’t a show.

I never said we’re chasing it, but I fully understand the commercial scale. And, truth be told, a lot of people just want Jake Paul to disappear from boxing. This fight could do exactly that.”

Anthony Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) last fought in September, when he was knocked out by Daniel Dubois in round five.

On 28 June, Jake Paul (12-1, 7 KOs) defeated Julio César Chávez Jr. by unanimous decision.

Photo: Sky Sports