I'll dominate 'legitimate boxer' Jake Paul - Joshua

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face-off

The British boxer prepares to battle the American YouTuber in an eight-round contest which will be broadcast in real-time on Netflix.

British boxer Joshua declared he will "dominate completely" Jake Paul and "defeat" the American as the two fighters met personally to build hype for the upcoming bout.

Former two time world heavyweight champion Joshua meets social media star turned fighter Paul - in what is, theoretically, a massive uneven pairing - at Miami's venue on 19 December.

Boxer's Mentality

"I plan to injure his face and damage his physique. I aim to demonstrate my superiority," Joshua, 35, stated.

"I plan to overwhelm him. That's how fighters think.

"I will really want to hurt him. That's what I want to do."

Civil Exchange

In spite of those words, a relaxed Joshua and social media star Jake Paul - typically recognized for his dramatics - were respectful and kept it respectful with each other.

Paul instead criticized ex Joshua's opponent Francis Ngannou and called him "ridiculous" after Ngannou rejected a match opportunity.

Targeting Fury

Joshua, at the same time, targeted British rival Tyson Fury - and refused a £1m bet 'The Gypsy King' states he will put on a Paul win.

"[Paul] outshines Fury - he's present here," the boxer said.

"I give him credit for that."

Serious Opponent

Despite declaring he will hurt Jake Paul, Anthony Joshua chose not to talk badly about his rival's fighting skills.

"Jake Paul is a legitimate boxer," he said.

Jake Paul's History

Paul - who originally gained popularity on the Disney Channel - has mostly boxed MMA fighters or faded names since entering professional boxing.

He lost to British fighter Fury in last year.

Commercial Success

Nevertheless, the inexperienced fighter is still one of the sport's greatest commercial attractions, regularly earning massive financial rewards.

Prediction and Belief

The 28-year-old predicted a knockout win in rounds four or five and asserted he would prevent the much-anticipated Fury-Joshua bout, which is reportedly in the works for 2026.

"It will be me versus Tyson Fury in the coming year," Paul declared.

Physical Difference

As the two fighters participated in the traditional face-off, with their physical disparity evident, it drove home just how improbable this complete situation is - and how remarkable it is that the bout is actually proceeding.

Daniel Lam
Daniel Lam

A freelance journalist specializing in contemporary arts and digital culture, based in London.