Anthony Joshua is set to make a dramatic return to the ring this December in a headline-grabbing heavyweight clash against social media star-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The two fighters are in the final stages of completing an agreement for a bout scheduled to take place in Miami, with the date expected to be either December 19 or 26. Netflix is preparing to officially announce the fight next week, positioning it as one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.
The matchup comes after Jake Paul’s originally planned fight against Gervonta Davis was cancelled following legal issues involving Davis. With that event scrapped, Paul’s team swiftly turned their focus toward securing another high-profile opponent. Talks with former two-time unified world champion Anthony Joshua quickly gained momentum, offering Netflix another blockbuster opportunity following its record-breaking success with Paul’s previous fight against Mike Tyson.
For Joshua, the fight represents a long-awaited comeback. The 36-year-old former heavyweight champion has not fought since suffering a defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. His promoter had previously indicated that Joshua was eager to return to the ring before the year’s end, making the December date ideal for his resurgence.
Jake Paul, on the other hand, continues his transition from YouTube fame to legitimate boxing contender. Despite facing criticism throughout his career, Paul has built a notable record and has become one of the sport’s biggest draws due to his star power and ability to generate global attention. His partnership with Netflix has brought boxing to massive audiences worldwide, turning exhibition-style bouts into must-watch entertainment.
Netflix’s entry into live sports broadcasting has been a game-changer. The streaming giant’s first boxing event – Jake Paul versus Mike Tyson – shattered records with over 65 million live concurrent viewers and more than 108 million average viewers globally. The upcoming Joshua vs Paul fight aims to build on that momentum, combining star appeal with heavyweight power to create another global spectacle.
With final details expected to be confirmed soon, fans can look forward to a December showdown in Miami that promises explosive action, global viewership, and a historic moment in modern boxing.
