Anthony Joshua Responds to Jake Paul Fight Critics: ‘Understand Me First’

In a significant turn of events, Anthony Joshua prepares for an upcoming fight against YouTuber Jake Paul. The matchup will take place in Miami on Friday night, marking Joshua’s return to the ring after a lengthy absence following a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024.

Joshua’s Perspective on the Fight and Critics

The 36-year-old heavyweight expressed his initial reluctance for media engagements but felt compelled to accept this fight when Paul reached out via WhatsApp. Joshua stated, “I just knew it was going to be big.”

His decision to face Paul has drawn criticism from boxing purists who argue it’s undermining the sport’s legitimacy. Critics question Joshua’s motives and fear for his legacy as he steps into the ring with someone who has significantly less experience.

Understanding the Opportunity

In response to the backlash, Joshua emphasized that understanding was mutual. “They need to understand me. I don’t need to understand them,” he said. He views this encounter as a unique opportunity on several fronts:

• Time to train effectively before a return.
• Potential for financial gain, identified as one of his biggest paydays.
• Enhancing his marketability through exposure to Paul’s extensive fanbase, which includes 28 million on Instagram and 4 million on X.

Training and Preparation

Despite the fight being perceived as less risky, Joshua has intensified his training, focusing not solely on Paul but also on future opponents. He has aligned with Oleksandr Usyk’s training team to maximize his preparation. “It’s been an actual training camp,” he affirmed.

He acknowledged Paul’s strengths, noting his good conditioning, technical skills, and fearless attitude, which he must be cautious of during the match. “Stands really side-on… uses his lead hand pretty well,” Joshua observed.

Fight Setup and Safety Considerations

This sanctioned professional fight is set for eight three-minute rounds, with both fighters using 10-ounce gloves. Joshua is restricted to a maximum weight of 245 pounds, while Paul, shorter and potentially lighter, presents an unusual challenge. The safety of this matchup has raised questions given the significant experience gap.

Joshua, however, insists he has no concerns about the confrontation: “None. I understand where you’re coming from, but there’s none,” he asserted. He recognizes Paul as a genuine competitor in the boxing sphere, albeit one who has taken a non-traditional path.

Expectations for the Outcome

Despite the external pressure, Joshua is focused on performing well. He acknowledged that failing to secure a decisive victory could be viewed as a setback for him. “I understand what my job is,” he stated, indicating a commitment to deliver a strong performance to silence critics.

The fight also carries importance for Joshua’s long-term ambitions, as he eyes a return to elite boxing by 2026, potentially against fellow Brit Tyson Fury. With high expectations and newfound training rigor, Joshua prepares to demonstrate his prowess in the ring against Jake Paul.