In a surprising twist, boxing promoter Eddie Hearn admits to a bit of gamesmanship in the upcoming Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight. He confessed to misleading Jake Paul's team about Joshua's weight to secure favorable terms. Let's break down this intriguing situation.
Former two-time unified heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua is set to clash with the YouTuber-turned-boxer at the Kaseya Center in Miami on December 19th.
Joshua, who has weighed over 250lb (or 17st 12lb) in his last three fights, will be required to come in under 245lb (or 17st 7lb) for this bout. Both fighters will be wearing regulation 10oz gloves.
Hearn revealed on the 5 Live Boxing podcast that he told Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, that Joshua weighed around 290lb (or 20st), even though Joshua was actually closer to 265lb (or 18st 13lb). This was a strategic move to negotiate a more advantageous weight stipulation. The fight, which will be streamed live on Netflix, is scheduled for eight three-minute rounds.
This matchup pits one of Britain's most accomplished heavyweights against a former Disney Channel actor who has successfully transitioned into a pay-per-view draw.
Hearn also mentioned that he initially resisted the idea of using balloon gloves and two-minute rounds, but eventually agreed to eight rounds. Paul's team requested that Joshua reduce his weight, with Hearn explaining that it wasn't about seeking an unfair advantage but rather to create a slight disadvantage for Joshua, who hasn't previously had to cut weight.
Jake Paul, 28, currently holds a professional record of 12-1, with his sole loss against Tommy Fury in 2023.
Hearn stands by his previous assessment of Paul, stating that he is 'average' despite his improvements. He believes Paul is not a world-class fighter, perhaps ranking in the top 60 at cruiserweight.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite criticisms that the fight is a calculated mismatch designed to benefit Joshua financially, Hearn insists that his fighter has long-term plans. He stated that this fight is not an end but a stepping stone, with significant plans for 2026. The goal is to secure a career-high payday and then prepare for more serious competition next year.
What do you think about Hearn's tactics? Do you believe it was a necessary move, or does it cross the line? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
