Entertainment Deputy Editor
Pius Imafidon
Boxing fans could be in for one of the most unexpected clashes in modern history as reports confirm that Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul have reached an “agreement in principle” to face each other in 2026.
The blockbuster matchup comes after months of speculation, false starts, and skepticism about whether the YouTuber-turned-boxer could ever step into the ring with a two-time heavyweight world champion.
Jake Paul, 28, who has steadily built his profile in the sport over the last few years, first called out Joshua earlier in 2025. While most observers dismissed the idea as a publicity stunt, behind-the-scenes negotiations with Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, have now moved closer to reality. According to Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, the deal is very much alive: “Anthony Joshua is 100 percent still a target. We have an agreement in principle.”
Before any potential clash with Joshua, Paul is scheduled to face lightweight champion Gervonta “Tank” Davis, 30, in an exhibition bout set for November 14 in Miami. The exhibition will include 10 rounds with modified rules, and while it won’t count on their professional records, it’s expected to draw massive global attention.
For Joshua, 35, the bout would mark a new chapter in his career after a turbulent few years. He hasn’t fought since his knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September 2024. Following that loss, Joshua underwent elbow surgery and is eyeing a return fight early next year, possibly in Ghana. That fight could serve as a tune-up ahead of bigger opportunities, including a potential long-awaited showdown with Tyson Fury.
Jake Paul, meanwhile, has been testing his limits by bouncing between weight divisions. His most-watched fight to date was against Mike Tyson in 2024, which pulled in over 100 million Netflix viewers. Although Paul weighed significantly lighter than Joshua’s typical fighting weight, his team remains confident that his ability to adapt across weight classes can make the matchup competitive.
Still, Eddie Hearn struck a cautious note. While open to the fight, he emphasized that Paul must first survive his clash with Davis. “If you get knocked out by Gervonta Davis, don’t think you’re fighting Anthony Joshua,” Hearn warned, making clear that AJ’s camp won’t hinge their plans on Paul’s risky exhibition.
Whether it’s dismissed as a circus act or embraced as a crossover spectacle, the idea of Joshua vs. Paul has already divided fans. Supporters believe it could bring fresh eyes to the sport, while purists argue it dilutes boxing’s credibility.
One thing is certain: if Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul do share a ring in 2026, it will be a fight the entire world will be watching.
