In a highly anticipated crossover boxing match that captivated global audiences, former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua delivered a devastating technical knockout against YouTube sensation Jake Paul during the sixth round of their Friday night bout. The event, broadcast live to Netflix’s 300 million subscribers, showcased a stark contrast between elite athleticism and social media celebrity.
The fight’s initial rounds saw Paul employing evasive tactics, repeatedly clinching and diving at Joshua’s legs to frustrate the British powerhouse. Through four rounds, Paul managed to avoid significant damage against the heavily favored former champion. However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the fifth round when Joshua found his range, flooring Paul twice with precision power punches.
The conclusive moment came in the sixth round when Joshua connected with a crushing right hand that sent Paul to the canvas for the final time. Medical examination later revealed Paul had sustained a double jaw fracture from the blow. Despite the severe injury, Paul demonstrated remarkable resilience by continuing to rise after earlier knockdowns.
Post-fight, Joshua acknowledged his opponent’s courage while issuing a challenge to long-time rival Tyson Fury: ‘It took longer than expected but the right hand finally found its destination. Jake showed real heart tonight—it takes a real man to keep getting up. But if you’re a real bad man like Fury claims to be, let’s settle it in the ring with fists, not words.’
The event generated mixed reactions from combat sports professionals. Former UFC champion Aljamain Sterling dismissed the spectacle as ‘a clown show,’ while podcast host Josh Thomson noted viewers should have anticipated the predictable outcome. Even political figures including former President Donald Trump commented on the match, praising Paul’s ‘great courage against a very talented and large Anthony Joshua.’
Paul confirmed his severe injuries via social media, posting X-rays of his fractured jaw while humorously claiming readiness to face Canelo Alvarez within days. Despite the loss, the social media star turned boxer remained defiant: ‘A nice little ass-whooping from one of the best to ever do it… I’m going to come back and get a world championship belt at some point.’
The bout marked Joshua’s successful return after a 15-month layoff, demonstrating his enduring power and technical proficiency. For Paul, the fight represented his most significant challenge yet after moving up from cruiserweight, though it ultimately revealed the substantial gap between celebrity boxing and world championship-level competition.