Nigeria-born British boxer Anthony Joshua has been urged to steer clear of a potential fight against Jake Paul, with boxing experts warning it could damage his credibility.
Anthony Joshua, a former two-time heavyweight champion, became an unexpected name linked to Paul after the YouTuber-turned-boxer called him out on his podcast. Joshua and Paul reportedly discussed a potential 2026 fight, with Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirming Joshua’s interest.
However, former European bantamweight champion Spencer Oliver has strongly advised Joshua against the fight, stating on talkSPORT:
“If he does it now, he loses all credibility. He’s a two-time world heavyweight champion looking to regain it for the third time. Don’t let Jake Paul get in the way of that. Follow the dream first. Once it’s over, entertain Jake Paul.”
Paul, who recently moved up to heavyweight for a controversial fight against Mike Tyson, has been vocal about his desire to face Joshua, claiming Joshua “doesn’t have a chin and he has no skill.”
Oliver acknowledged that Paul generates massive revenue, making him an attractive opponent.
“One thing that Jake Paul does is draw huge numbers. There’s not a fighter that wouldn’t fight him because there’s huge money on the table, that’s the fact. But do we want to see it? No. I don’t think we could. I think…no I’m going to rephrase that, I don’t think we could see it but later rather than sooner. “
Oliver insists Joshua must focus on his journey back to the top of the heavyweight division before considering an exhibition fight with Paul.
I think Anthony Joshua has to go on his journey first; he has to try and regain that world heavyweight title. Or if he doesn’t, he’s got to try to do it, and then he can entertain Jake Paul.”
