After suffering a sixth-round knockout at the hands of Anthony Joshua in Miami, Jake Paul is already being encouraged to return to the ring in 2026. The 28-year-old YouTuber-turned-boxer endured a double jaw fracture during the defeat, marking only the second loss of his professional boxing career. Despite this, Joshua sees potential for Paul to come back strong.
Joshua Encourages Paul to Bounce Back
During a post-fight press conference, Joshua praised Paul’s courage and resilience in the ring.
“Jake has spirit,” Joshua said. He has some heart. He tried his best, and I take my hat off to him because No. 1, a lot of fighters haven’t got in the ring with me, and Jake did. Secondly, even when he got knocked down, he kept on trying to get up, and I take my hat off to him. So, America, I think you have someone who could potentially — if he still has the heart for it — come back again, dust the dust off his shoulder and come again and maybe sell out this center sometime in 2026. Maybe against a Gervonta Davis, a Ryan Garcia, who knows.”
Joshua emphasized that Paul should continue challenging legitimate boxing opponents rather than older MMA fighters, the type of athletes he had previously defeated to build his record.
Anthony Joshua on Jake Paul: “Unless you have that instinct, you will never be a good fighter. … Jake has spirit, he has some heart. He tried his best, and I tip my hat off to him. A lot of fighters haven’t got in the ring with me, and Jake did.” 🗣️ #JakeJoshua pic.twitter.com/UehZharCOT
— Netflix Sports (@netflixsports) December 20, 2025
Future Matchups and Career Direction
Joshua also hinted at his own aspirations for 2026, calling out fellow heavyweight Tyson Fury.
“It wasn’t the best performance, it wasn’t the best,” Joshua admitted. We shake off the cobwebs, and I can’t wait to roll into 2026. And if Tyson Fury’s as serious as he thinks he is, and he wants to put down his Twitter fingers and put on some gloves and come and fight one of the realest fighters out there that will take on any challenge, step in the ring with me next if you’re a real bad boy. Let’s see you in the ring and talk with your fists.”
Following the fight, Paul underwent surgery to repair his jaw, which means he will be restricted to a liquid diet for the holidays. The injury is severe but has not dampened his appetite to continue fighting. Boxing analysts and fans alike are now speculating whether he will take Joshua’s advice and seek high-level opponents such as Davis or Garcia, aiming to solidify his place among mainstream boxing stars.
