Former unified heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua could make a stunning return to the ring before the end of 2025, with reports suggesting a possible blockbuster bout against Jake Paul.
Joshua has not fought since his devastating fifth-round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley in September 2024, a defeat that ended his hopes of reclaiming heavyweight glory. Following elbow surgery earlier this year, the British star has been steadily preparing for a comeback.
His promoter, Eddie Hearn, confirmed that Joshua is expected to headline one of Matchroom Boxing’s year-end events tentatively scheduled for November 15, December 13, or December 27, replying simply, “Yes,” when asked if Joshua would return in 2025.
“Just Let Me Know When,” Joshua Responds to Jake Paul Rumours
Speculation has been growing around a potential Joshua vs. Jake Paul fight, a matchup that would merge boxing’s elite level with its most polarizing celebrity-turned-contender.
Jake Paul, 28, continues to defy critics, earning attention with wins over Mike Tyson and Julio César Chávez Jr. He was originally set to face Gervonta Davis in a controversial exhibition on November 14, but the fight was scrapped after Davis became entangled in a civil lawsuit.
With his December date now open, Paul’s camp reportedly reached out to Joshua’s team, and according to Hearn, Joshua didn’t hesitate.
“Just let me know where and when,” Joshua told his promoter when asked about the potential fight.
However, while both sides are intrigued, multiple logistical barriers, including broadcast and contractual obligations, could make the matchup difficult to finalize in the near term.
Jake Paul Confirms Negotiations: “100 Percent It Can Happen”
Speaking to Sky Sports, Jake Paul confirmed that preliminary talks are underway for a possible 2026 mega-fight.
“100 percent it can happen. Our teams are already in talks to try and make it happen next year,” Paul said.
The American influencer-turned-boxer admitted that facing Joshua would be a monumental challenge but said the idea excites him.
“It would be fun to take on Anthony Joshua. It’s a massive risk going into a fight where no one thinks I stand a chance. That’s what motivates me.”
Hearn Remains Cautious but Open
Eddie Hearn remains intrigued by the potential spectacle but stressed that Joshua’s immediate comeback plans are independent of any Jake Paul negotiations.
“We’re not waiting around for a Jake Paul fight. We have our own plans, likely January or February 2026,” Hearn explained.
He also warned Paul to focus on his next scheduled bouts first.
“If you get chinned by Gervonta Davis, don’t think you’re fighting Anthony Joshua. It’s ridiculous,” Hearn said bluntly.
If the matchup does materialize, it would be one of the most unexpected events in modern boxing, pitting an Olympic gold medalist and two-time heavyweight champion against a YouTube sensation with fewer than 15 professional fights.
For Joshua, the bout could mark a triumphant return and a chance to reassert his dominance in the sport. For Paul, it would represent the ultimate test of his legitimacy as a professional boxer.
