I'll overwhelm 'legitimate boxer' Paul - Joshua

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face-off

Anthony Joshua is set to fight the American YouTuber in an eight-round match which will be shown live on the streaming platform.

British boxer Joshua said he will "overwhelm entirely" the American and "overpower" his opponent as the pair met personally to build hype for the upcoming boxing match.

Ex two time unified heavyweight champion Joshua meets social media star turned fighter Paul - in what is, by the numbers, a massive mismatch - at Miami venue on 19 December.

Boxer's Mindset

"I plan to damage his features and damage his physique. I aim to demonstrate I'm superior," Joshua, 35 years old, declared.

"I plan to overwhelm him. That's how fighters think.

"I'm going to genuinely try to injure him. That's my intention."

Civil Interaction

In spite of those words, a relaxed Joshua and internet personality Paul - usually famous for his theatrics - exchanged pleasantries and remained civil with each other.

Paul instead attacked former Joshua's opponent Francis Ngannou and described him as "not serious" after the Cameroonian declined a bout proposal.

Taking Aim at Fury

Joshua, at the same time, took aim at British rival Fury - and refused a large bet 'The Gypsy King' claims he will make on a victory for Paul.

"[Paul] is superior to Fury - he showed up," Joshua said.

"I give him credit for that."

Legitimate Opponent

In spite of saying he intends to punish Paul, Joshua declined to comment unfavorably about his rival's boxing ability.

"Jake is a serious fighter," he said.

Paul's Background

Jake Paul - who originally gained popularity on the Disney Channel - has mainly boxed mixed martial artists or declining opponents since becoming pro.

He was defeated by Briton Fury in last year.

Financial Attraction

However, the relative newcomer remains one of the sport's largest financial successes, frequently receiving huge earnings.

Prediction and Belief

The 28-year-old predicted a KO victory in rounds four or five and asserted he would derail the much-anticipated match between Joshua and Fury, which is apparently under discussion for 2026.

"It's going to be myself against Tyson Fury in the coming year," Paul declared.

Physical Difference

As both boxers met for the traditional face-off, with their size difference clearly visible, it drove home just how surprising this whole event is - and how amazing it is that the match is really proceeding.

Mandy Johnson
Mandy Johnson

Marcus Thorne is a seasoned esports analyst and community manager with over a decade of experience in competitive gaming ecosystems.