Anthony Joshua is poised to earn a staggering £70 million from a potential showdown with internet sensation turned boxer Jake Paul as negotiations for a blockbuster fight in Miami gain momentum. Insiders say the total prize fund could reach around £140 million, with Joshua and Paul expected to split it equally if the bout is confirmed.
Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, has cautioned that talks are still ongoing. The fight would mark the 36-year-old’s return to the ring for the first time since his heavy loss to Daniel Dubois over a year ago, though sources suggest an official announcement could come early next week. Unlike an exhibition, the contest would follow full professional Queensbury rules.
Netflix has emerged as a key player in the discussions, keen to broadcast the fight. The platform is currently producing a documentary on Joshua and previously streamed Paul’s November 2024 clash with Mike Tyson, which drew more than 60 million viewers. Paul’s cancelled matchup with lightweight champion Gervonta Davis has reignited interest in a Joshua fight after more than a year of speculation.
Hearn acknowledged the challenges in finalising the deal. He said the arrangement is not yet done but stressed the opportunity is too significant to ignore. “There has been a lot of gun jumping on this,” Hearn explained. “Jake Paul would be mad to turn it down, but we are in talks. We were considering a low-key return for AJ, but this could be fifty times bigger.”
Addressing criticism over the spectacle, Hearn added, “Would it be great for Joshua’s legacy? Not really. But remember, he is a two-time heavyweight world champion and an Olympic gold medallist. This is a chance, and fair play to Paul if he wants to step into the ring. AJ won’t be taking it lightly.”
Paul, who has a twelve-one record, has mostly faced lesser-known opponents and ageing legends, with his only defeat coming against Tommy Fury. Tyson Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, commented that while the matchup may attract scepticism, it is likely to capture enormous attention. “AJ doesn’t make much noise in the US, but Paul does. People love a spectacle. It will do very well,” Warren said.
Beyond the financial incentive, Joshua is motivated by the chance to shake off ring rust after a long layoff. He resumed light training earlier this year, underwent minor elbow surgery in May, and intensified his conditioning from October as he prepares for a high-profile return.
