In a highly anticipated matchup, YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul will face two-time world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua this weekend in Miami. Joshua, a seasoned professional with notable victories over icons like Wladimir Klitschko and Dillian Whyte, enters the fight as the clear favorite. However, he is coming off a tough loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024, raising questions about his current form.
Paul, on the other hand, boasts a professional boxing record of 12 wins and 1 loss. His last bout in June saw him defeat former world middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., adding to his growing portfolio that includes a polarizing win against heavyweight legend Mike Tyson, who was 58 years old at the time of their fight in November 2023. While Tyson’s match with Paul stirred controversy, it was financially fruitful, with Paul reportedly earning $40 million.
This upcoming fight is generating significant buzz not only for the unlikely matchup but also for the staggering prize purse anticipated. Reports suggest that the total purse could reach around £140 million ($184 million), potentially split between the fighters. Paul later tweeted a different estimate, proclaiming a $267 million figure, hinting at a significant payday for both fighters.
According to sports accountant Oriana Morrison, even at the lower estimate, Joshua could earn approximately $92 million, marking one of the largest purses seen in boxing since the famous Mayweather vs. Pacquiao match in 2015. Morrison noted that this fight presents a unique opportunity to showcase Joshua’s talent to a broader American audience, crediting both Paul and his promotional company, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), for ushering in a new era of boxing that aims to attract fresh viewership and modernize the sport.
With the stakes high and both fighters bringing distinct fan bases, this matchup could redefine the landscape of boxing, appealing to old fans while capturing the imaginations of new ones. Paul’s growing influence in the boxing world continues to challenge traditional structures, and this fight may serve as a pivotal moment in the sport’s evolution in the United States.