Matchroom CEO Frank Smith has refuted claims that Jake Paul’s upcoming fight with Anthony Joshua will be fixed.
Speculation arose last week regarding a potential clash between Joshua and Paul during Christmas. The heavyweight bout was officially announced on Monday, set to occur on December 19 in Miami. The match will consist of eight three-minute rounds, with both fighters using 10oz gloves.
The outcome of the fight will impact their professional records. Despite accusations of fixing fights since his debut in 2020, Paul has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Critics within the boxing community have criticized the upcoming bout, labeling it as ‘rigged.’
Smith, a key figure in Eddie Hearn’s team, dismissed these allegations ahead of the scheduled fight. He emphasized that it is a standard eight-round professional bout, affirming that Joshua intends to knock out Paul on December 19.
The fight between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul will be live-streamed on Netflix, accessible to fans through Sky’s £15 Essential TV bundle. Paul had initially called for a showdown with Joshua earlier this year, with discussions leading to their upcoming match in Miami.
After a series of setbacks, including the cancellation of a fight with Gervonta Davis, Paul sought another opponent for this year. Ultimately, Joshua accepted the challenge, surprising many within the boxing world. Smith revealed that the negotiations for the fight progressed rapidly, culminating in an agreement within a week.
The Matchroom CEO expressed reservations about the matchup, suggesting that Paul may have taken a risky step by facing Joshua, who he considers to be on a different level. The fight is scheduled for December 19 in Miami, with the ring walk expected around 11 pm local time. Viewers can watch the event live on Netflix, with the fight time subject to change based on the undercard’s duration.