Jake Paul will face Anthony Joshua on December 19 in Miami.
Joshua will end a 15-month lay-off to face Paul at the Kaseya Center, live on Netflix.
Paul was set to face lightweight world champion, Gervonta Davis in an exhibition on November 15 at the same venue, but the event was cancelled after Davis was accused of attacking his ex-girlfriend in a civil lawsuit.
‘The Problem Child’ had been searching for an opponent to step-in and reportedly sent an offer to Ryan Garcia.
The 28-year-old has opted to face the former two-time heavyweight world champion, who has not fought since a devastating fifth round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024.
“Jake or anyone can get this work,” Joshua said.
“No mercy.
“I took some time out and I’m coming back with a mega show.
“It’s a big opportunity for me.
“Whether you like it or not, I’m here to do massive numbers, have big fights and break every record whilst keeping cool, calm and collected.
“Mark my words, you’ll see a lot more fighters take these opportunities.
“I’m about to break the internet over Jake Paul’s face.”
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Paul’s business partner, Nakisa Bidarian revealed that ‘AJ’ cannot weigh in any higher than 245lbs, which is over seven pounds lighter than he weighed in against Dubois.
The professional bout will be contested over eight, three-minute rounds and the pair will wear 10 ounce gloves.
“This isn’t an AI simulation. This is Judgment Day,” Paul said.
“A professional heavyweight fight against an elite world champion in his prime.
“When I beat Anthony Joshua, every doubt disappears, and no one can deny me the opportunity to fight for a world title.”
Joshua is already being lined up for two bouts in 2025, with Saudi Arabian boxing chief, Turki Alalshikh confirming on Saturday that the 36-year-old will fight in February in Riyadh before fighting in London in September in “one of the greatest fights in the history of boxing.”
Joshua and Paul are set to come face-to-face for the first time at a press conference in Miami on Friday.
