Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua fight cancelled
Jake Paul’s scheduled bout against Anthony Joshua has been cancelled following an injury sustained by the American boxer during training with British fighter Lawrence Okolie, reports BritPanorama.
Former heavyweight champion Bermane Stiverne disclosed that Paul suffered a black eye, which has led to the cancellation of the fight initially set for December 19. The injury reportedly occurred during sparring sessions, although details remain sparse, and official confirmation of the cancellation has yet to be provided.
Stiverne revealed, “I’ve just heard somewhere that he was injured, that it’s not happening,” adding that he was informed about Okolie delivering the injury. “It might be a lie, or it might be true, but I don’t know. That’s what I was hearing, and it wouldn’t surprise me.” Paul had been preparing to enter the heavyweight category for the first time against Joshua, raising concerns about the experience and weight disparity between the fighters.
While Paul has acknowledged being “bruised up” after training with Okolie, there is currently no official news regarding a postponement of the match. Historical precedents, such as Tyson Fury’s fight against Oleksandr Usyk being delayed due to an eye injury, highlight how such injuries can derail plans. In that instance, Fury’s bout was postponed from February to May.
The bout at Miami’s Kaseya Center could still proceed as scheduled, though skepticism surrounding Paul’s readiness persists. Stiverne noted that he does not foresee Paul lasting beyond three rounds should the fight go ahead, expressing, “I think it’s going to be up to Joshua. I don’t see it go past three rounds — and I’m being generous.”
Critics of Paul suggest his history in the ring demonstrates a pattern of vulnerability against seasoned fighters. In his previous fight against Tommy Fury, Paul faced challenges, and Stiverne reflected on the limited skills Paul exhibits, commenting, “for him to step in the ring with one of the best heavyweights today… it’s a bit much.” The growing trend of celebrity boxing events juxtaposes traditional bouts, indicating a shift in viewer interest, where YouTubers can command larger audiences than established professionals. As boxing evolves, so too does the landscape of spectator engagement, capturing a complex picture of the sport’s future.
