The combat sports world is unified in its prediction for the December 19 showdown between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul, but divided on whether the event is a brilliant spectacle or a perilous mismatch. As the two prepare to clash in a professional 8-round bout airing live on Netflix from Miami, legends from boxing and MMA are issuing stark warnings, with almost universal agreement that the former two-time heavyweight champion holds an overwhelming advantage.
The fight, which could see Joshua earn up to $89 million, has ignited a fierce debate about the future of influencer boxing. While the financial stakes are record-breaking, the consensus from experts like Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor is clear: Paul is stepping into extraordinarily dangerous territory against one of the sport’s most powerful active heavyweights.
A Chorus of Concern: “It Looks Dangerous”
The most common refrain from seasoned fighters is one of caution for Jake Paul’s safety. UFC superstar Conor McGregor didn’t mince words, stating the fight “looks dangerous” and highlighting Joshua’s formidable size and “legendary” punching power.
This sentiment is echoed by some of boxing’s hardest hitters. Former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder emphasised the “real dangers” of the sport, particularly against a puncher of Joshua’s calibre. Similarly, David Haye expressed hope for a “compassionate referee,” implicitly acknowledging the potential for a one-sided and hazardous contest.
The Expert Verdict: Overwhelming Support for Joshua
Beyond the safety concerns, the technical prediction from the boxing community is nearly unanimous. The table below summarises the stark predictions from key figures:
| Fighter/Expert | Prediction for Joshua vs. Paul | Key Quote/Sentiment |
|---|---|---|
| Manny Pacquiao | Joshua to win | Confidently named Joshua as the victor. |
| Oleksandr Usyk | Joshua to win | Likened Joshua to a “Rolls-Royce” and Paul to a “Fiat.” |
| Lennox Lewis | Straightforward Joshua wins | Praised Paul’s courage but expects a simple victory for AJ. |
| Amir Khan | Joshua by knockout | Predicted a KO that could deter future influencer boxers. |
| Tommy Fury | Joshua to dominate | Believes Joshua will outmatch Paul as he did. |
The Puncher’s Chance: Is There Any Hope for Paul?
While the odds are heavily stacked against him, a small minority of combat sports figures see a glimmer of possibility for Jake Paul. Former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson argued that Paul possesses a “puncher’s chance,” pointing to Joshua’s past vulnerability to unexpected shots.
Nate Diaz, who lost a boxing match to Paul in 2023, also suggested an upset was possible if “things go his way.” However, these views represent a significant minority against the tidal wave of expert opinion favoring the seasoned Olympian and champion.
More Than a Fight: Legacy, Money, and the Sport’s Future
This bout transcends a simple boxing match. For Anthony Joshua, it’s a reported $89 million tune-up fight designed to prepare him for a potential historic clash with Tyson Fury in 2026. A dominant performance reasserts his elite status and sets the stage for an even bigger payday.
For Jake Paul and the phenomenon of influencer boxing, the stakes are about legitimacy. A competitive showing, or even surviving the distance, could be framed as a moral victory. However, as promoter Eddie Hearn (who represents Joshua) bluntly stated, he sees it as a “very straightforward” night and a huge payday for his fighter. Many in the traditional boxing world hope a decisive Joshua victory will reaffirm the sport’s competitive hierarchy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the major concerns experts have about this fight?
The primary concern, voiced by fighters like Conor McGregor and Deontay Wilder, is for Jake Paul’s safety. They highlight the significant danger of a novice boxer facing a top-tier heavyweight puncher like Anthony Joshua.
Who is favoured to win, and why?
Anthony Joshua is the overwhelming favourite. Experts cite his vast superiority in experience (Olympic gold medalist, two-time world champion), proven elite-level power, and significant physical advantages over Jake Paul.
Has anyone given Jake Paul a chance to win?
A few, like Demetrious Johnson and Nate Diaz, have noted he has a “puncher’s chance.” However, this is based on the unpredictable nature of boxing, not an analysis of technical skill.
What is the significance of this fight for boxing?
Many see it as a clash between traditional boxing legitimacy and the influencer boxing spectacle. A dominant Joshua win is viewed by some as a necessary correction for the sport’s competitive integrity.
When and where is the fight?
The fight is scheduled for December 19 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. It will be a professional 8-round bout streamed globally on Netflix.
