Matchroom CEO Frank Smith has refuted claims that the upcoming fight between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua will be fixed. Speculation surfaced last week about a potential showdown between Joshua and Paul during the Christmas season. The heavyweight bout was officially announced on Monday to be held on December 19 in Miami, consisting of eight three-minute rounds with both fighters wearing 10oz gloves.
This fight will impact their professional records, and despite previous accusations against Paul for fixing fights since his debut in 2020, he has consistently denied any wrongdoing. Criticism from the boxing community has labeled the fight as ‘rigged,’ but Smith dismissed these allegations, emphasizing that it is a standard professional fight.
Scheduled to be streamed live on Netflix, the event offers fans the opportunity to watch for free with Sky’s £15 Essential TV bundle. Smith highlighted Joshua’s intent to win decisively, stating that Joshua is focused on knocking out Paul come December 19.
Paul had initially called for a match with Joshua earlier this year, leading to discussions and eventual agreement for the upcoming fight. The recent cancellation of an event against Gervonta Davis prompted Paul to seek another fight this year, culminating in Joshua accepting the challenge. Smith acknowledged the unexpected nature of Paul’s decision to face Joshua and expressed reservations about the matchup, considering Joshua’s elite status in boxing.
The anticipated clash between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul in Miami on December 19 is expected to attract viewers globally, with the fight likely to commence around 11 pm local time. The event, subject to potential timing adjustments based on the undercard duration, will be broadcast live on Netflix, catering to a wide audience.