Nigeria-born British boxer Anthony Joshua has been urged to avoid a potential fight with Jake Paul, with boxing experts warning it could harm his credibility.
Joshua, a former two-time heavyweight champion, became linked to Paul after the YouTuber-turned-boxer called him out on his podcast. Reports suggest that Joshua and Paul have discussed a potential fight in 2026, with Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirming Joshua’s interest.
However, former European bantamweight champion Spencer Oliver has strongly advised Joshua to steer clear of 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. Focus on the dream first. Once it’s over, then consider Jake Paul.”
Paul, who recently moved up to heavyweight for a controversial bout against Mike Tyson, has been vocal about his desire to face Joshua, claiming that Joshua “doesn’t have a chin and he has no skill.”
Oliver acknowledged that Paul draws massive revenue, making him an attractive opponent, but stressed that Joshua’s priority should be his boxing career.
“One thing Jake Paul does is draw huge numbers. There’s not a fighter that wouldn’t fight him because of the massive money involved, but do we want to see it? No. I don’t think it should happen now, but maybe later.”
Oliver emphasized that Joshua must focus on regaining his position at the top of the heavyweight division before considering an exhibition fight with Paul.
“Anthony Joshua has to focus on his journey first; he needs to try and reclaim that world heavyweight title. If he doesn’t, he should at least give it a go, and then he can entertain Jake Paul.”
