Jake Paul Reveals Private Messages Mocking Anthony Joshua Over Previous Knockout Losses To Accept UK Fight Request
Jake Paul, the YouTuber-turned-professional boxer, has once again stirred the boxing world by revealing private messages exchanged with former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. The 28-year-old American, known for his brash persona and knack for generating headlines, disclosed that he taunted Joshua over his past knockout losses, prompting a fiery response from the British star. This exchange has fueled speculation about a potential blockbuster showdown in the UK, with Paul expressing enthusiasm for fighting in front of a hostile British crowd. The revelations come as Paul prepares for his next bout while Joshua recovers from a recent setback, setting the stage for a high-profile clash that could captivate fans globally.
In a recent interview with SunSport, Paul shared details of the direct messages, stating that he sent Joshua clips of his knockout defeats, including losses to Daniel Dubois in September 2024 and Andy Ruiz Jr. in 2019. Paul’s provocative jabs were met with a stern warning from Joshua, who reportedly wrote, “I can’t wait to fight. You’re gonna be fighting for your life and you’ll know the feeling that I’ve gone through.” Paul confirmed this was their last exchange, indicating the intensity of their rivalry. Despite the heated words, Paul expressed admiration for Joshua, calling him a “great guy” but confidently asserting his belief that he could defeat the two-time heavyweight champion in the ring.
Paul’s callout of Joshua is part of his ongoing strategy to challenge high-profile fighters, leveraging his massive social media following to create buzz around potential matchups. Since transitioning from YouTube to professional boxing in 2020, Paul has built an 11-1 record, with notable wins over former MMA stars like Nate Diaz and Anderson Silva, as well as a unanimous decision victory against boxing legend Mike Tyson in November 2024. His only loss came against Tommy Fury in 2023, a defeat that has not deterred him from pursuing bigger names. Paul’s recent victory over former middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. on June 28, 2025, has further bolstered his confidence, with a potential WBC or WBA ranking on the line that could position him for a world title shot.
The prospect of a Paul-Joshua fight has sparked varied reactions. Joshua, 35, is a seasoned heavyweight with a 28-4 record, including 25 knockouts. His experience and physical advantages—standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing approximately two stone more than Paul—make him a formidable opponent. However, Joshua’s recent knockout loss to Dubois, coupled with his recovery from elbow surgery, has led some to question his current form. Paul, undeterred by the size disparity, has embraced the challenge, stating, “I’m definitely not a heavyweight, but I’m still gonna take the challenge.” He has also expressed excitement about fighting in the UK, potentially at Wembley Stadium, where he anticipates a crowd of 100,000 chanting against him, a scenario he finds thrilling.
Promoter Eddie Hearn, who has guided Joshua’s career, has acknowledged the appeal of the fight, noting its potential to draw massive viewership. However, he cautioned Paul about the dangers, suggesting that Joshua could “detach his head from his neck” in the ring. Hearn emphasized that Joshua is open to the bout, potentially as early as 2025, rather than Paul’s proposed 2026 timeline. Paul’s team, led by Nakisa Bidarian, has outlined a strategic plan, indicating that a rematch with Tommy Fury could precede the Joshua fight, with discussions ongoing with Matchroom Boxing to finalize details.
The boxing community remains divided on Paul’s ambitions. Critics argue that his confidence borders on delusion, pointing to Joshua’s superior experience and power. Social media reactions have been harsh, with some fans and analysts, like trainer Dave Coldwell, predicting that Joshua could end the fight with a single jab. Others, however, admire Paul’s ability to generate attention and create lucrative events, acknowledging his growing skill in the ring. Paul’s promotional company, Most Valuable Promotions, continues to orchestrate high-profile bouts, and a fight with Joshua could surpass the 60 million households that watched his Tyson bout.
As Paul prepares for his next steps, including a possible exhibition with lightweight champion Gervonta Davis, the boxing world watches closely. Whether the Joshua fight materializes in 2026 or sooner, Paul’s provocative messages and bold challenges ensure he remains a polarizing figure. For Joshua, the opportunity to silence the outspoken American in front of a home crowd could be a chance to reclaim his standing in the heavyweight division. The stage is set for a clash that promises drama, spectacle, and intense competition.
