Jake Paul vows to “put Britain’s Goliath to sleep” as Miami hosts headline showdown with Anthony Joshua
Jake Paul says December 19 will be “Judgment Day” after confirming he will face Anthony Joshua in a blockbuster heavyweight fight in Miami.
The YouTuber-turned-boxer, who has a 12–1 professional record, will take on the former world heavyweight champion at the Kaseya Center in an eight-round sanctioned bout using 10oz gloves.
The fight will stream live worldwide on Netflix, writes Sports News Blitz’s Simon J Wilkes.
Paul, 28, leaned heavily into the moment as he addressed reporters, insisting this is the breakthrough fight he has been chasing.
Judgment Day
“This isn’t an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day,” Paul said on Sky Sports. “A professional heavyweight fight against an elite world champion in his prime.
“When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears and no one can deny me the opportunity to fight for a world title.
“To all my haters, this is what you wanted. To the people of the United Kingdom, I am sorry.
“On Friday, December 19, under the lights in Miami, live globally only on Netflix, the torch gets passed and Britain’s Goliath gets put to sleep.”
Stepping in
Joshua steps in after Paul’s expected bout with Gervonta Davis fell through due to a civil lawsuit filed against the lightweight star.
The British fighter has not competed since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois but returns aiming to reset his career.
‘Be careful what you wish for’
Promoter Eddie Hearn said the Miami stage is fitting for an event of this scale.
“They say be careful what you wish for — kind of feel like that’s all I need to say,” Hearn told Sky Sports.
“Two of the biggest names in the sport will collide on December 19. Whilst I admire Jake’s b****, he’s going to find out the hard way in Miami.”
Joshua remains unfazed, describing the event as a “mega show”.
“I took some time out and I’m coming back with a mega show,” Joshua said.
“It’s a big opportunity for me. Whether you like it or not, I’m here to do massive numbers, have big fights and break every record whilst keeping cool, calm and collected.
“I’m about to break the internet over Jake Paul’s face.”
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