Anthony Joshua Stops Jake Paul in Brutal Miami Heavyweight Showdown

 Two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua returned to the ring for the first time since his knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024

Former British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua reminded the boxing world of the gulf between elite pedigree and celebrity hype as he defeated YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in a much-anticipated heavyweight showdown in Miami.

Joshua, fighting for the first time in 14 months, secured victory after scoring three knockdowns before unleashing a crushing right hand midway through the sixth round, bringing the contest to a decisive end.

Despite the clear result, Joshua was forced to work harder than many expected against a determined but limited Paul, who showed resilience and heart throughout the bout.

Respect After the Battle

In a gesture of sportsmanship, Joshua lifted Paul’s hand after the fight, which was broadcast live on Netflix, acknowledging his opponent’s courage.

“Jake Paul has done really well tonight,” Joshua said.

“I want to give him his props. He got up time and time again.”

Joshua later admitted the fight was not flawless.

“It wasn’t the best performance. It took a bit longer than expected, but the right hand finally found the destination.”

Paul Reacts: ‘I Gave It My All’

Despite the defeat, Jake Paul remained upbeat and unapologetic.

“I’m feeling good. That was fun. I love this sport. I gave it my all. It’s f****** crazy. I had a blast,” Paul said.

“I got my ass beat, but that’s what this sport is about. I’m going to come back and keep on winning.”

Paul added that fatigue played a role in the stoppage.

“I just got tired, to be honest. He did amazing and hits really hard.”

Weight Advantage Tells the Story

At Friday’s weigh-in, Joshua held a significant physical edge, weighing 243.4lbs (17st 5lbs) compared to Paul’s 216lbs (15st 6lbs), a difference of nearly two stone.

Joshua was close to his career-lightest weight, having not been under 245lbs since his first bout with Oleksandr Usyk in September 2021. In contrast, he weighed 252.5lbs for his loss to Daniel Dubois last year.

For Paul, this fight marked only the second time he has weighed above the cruiserweight limit, the first being his bout against 58-year-old Mike Tyson, which Paul won by unanimous decision.

A Reality Check

While the bout delivered entertainment and spectacle, it ultimately served as a reminder of the experience, power, and discipline that separate seasoned world champions from crossover fighters.

For Joshua, it was a successful return to the ring.

For Paul, it was a humbling but valuable lesson on boxing’s biggest stage.