🔗 Share this article

Fighter's Mentality

"I will injure his face and damage his physique. I aim to demonstrate I'm the better fighter," Joshua, 35 years old, declared.

"I'll stamp all over him. That's how fighters think.

"I will seriously aim to cause him pain. That's my intention."

Respectful Exchange

In spite of these statements, a composed Anthony Joshua and internet personality Jake Paul - usually famous for his showmanship - were respectful and maintained decorum with each other.

Paul instead criticized former Joshua's rival Francis Ngannou and labeled him "not serious" after the Cameroonian declined a bout proposal.

Targeting Tyson Fury

Anthony Joshua, meanwhile, took aim at British rival Tyson Fury - and rejected a million-pound wager 'The Gypsy King' says he will place on a Paul victory.

"[Paul] outshines Tyson Fury - he's actually sitting here," Joshua commented.

"I acknowledge that."

Serious Fighter

In spite of saying he intends to punish Paul, Joshua chose not to speak negatively about his opponent's fighting skills.

"Jake Paul is a credible opponent," he stated.

Paul's History

Jake Paul - who originally gained popularity on the Disney Channel - has mainly boxed mixed martial artists or past-their-prime fighters since becoming pro.

He was defeated by Briton Fury in 2023.

Financial Success

Still, the relative newcomer remains one of boxing's biggest money-making draws, frequently receiving substantial earnings.

Forecast and Confidence

The 28-year-old forecast a stoppage in the fourth or fifth round and claimed he would prevent the highly-expected match between Joshua and Fury, which is apparently being planned for 2026.

"It will be my match with Fury in the coming year," Jake Paul said.

Physical Difference

As Joshua and Paul met for the usual confrontation, with their physical disparity on show, it drove home just how improbable this entire matchup is - and how amazing it is that the match is actually going ahead.