Hearn Open to Joshua vs. Jake Paul: "No Need to Wait Until 2026"

British promoter Eddie Hearn has admitted he would be open to arranging a fight between Anthony Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) — one of Matchroom Boxing’s biggest stars — and YouTuber-turned-heavyweight boxer Jake Paul (11-1, 7 KOs).

“Honestly, we’d be open to it. I think Jake is wild enough to want to create these big moments and make a ton of money. At the same time, this is a dangerous sport, and you’ve got to be careful. But look — reach out to us. AJ isn’t a world champion. He’s not chasing unification or undisputed fights. All he’s looking for is a big event.

Would it be against Jake Paul? Would Anthony agree to it?

Yes, I think he would. I don’t see the point in waiting until 2026 — Jake doesn’t have a fight lined up, and neither do we. If you want to do it, let’s just get it done. It’s dangerous enough. And honestly, I wouldn’t be surprised.

Jake has people around him constantly telling him he’s incredible, that he can fight these guys.

I think he genuinely believes he can be competitive against Canelo, and I think he believes he can be competitive against Anthony Joshua,” said Hearn.

Previously, Jake Paul had claimed he was ready to face Joshua in 2026 and even criticized AJ, saying he lacked a chin and the necessary skills.

Paul also recently named the year he plans to become a professional world champion.