Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul engaged in a heated face-off in Miami just one day before their highly anticipated boxing match set to stream on Netflix. Tensions escalated as Joshua made a slitting throat gesture following their stare-down, further intensifying the atmosphere. The former heavyweight champion, known as AJ, issued a stark warning to Paul, stating, “I’m just gonna outclass this kid. I’m a serious fighter. That’s just the difference.”
Joshua, who will compete at heavyweight for only the second time, weighed in at **243.3 pounds** (17 stones 3 pounds), significantly heavier than Paul, who came in at **216 pounds** (15 stones 4 pounds). With a **245-pound** weigh-in limit imposed on him, Joshua’s size advantage is notable. He declared during the confrontation, “You’re going to get f***ed up. It is what it is. I just believe I’m going to smash him. I’m gonna smoke your boy.”
The fight marks Joshua’s return to the ring after suffering a knockout loss to **Daniel Dubois** in September 2024. Meanwhile, Paul, 28, is stepping into the ring for his second heavyweight bout, having previously defeated **Mike Tyson**, who was 58 at the time, last year. This matchup comes with considerable stakes for both fighters, especially for Joshua, who has faced criticism following his recent performance.
Paul, who has only **13 professional fights** under his belt, including one loss to **Tommy Fury** in 2023, is eager to prove himself against a seasoned opponent. He expressed confidence in his position, stating, “The pressure’s on him. I’m fighting free. I’ve already won; this is a lose-lose situation for him.” Paul aims to showcase the importance of self-belief and inspire the next generation of athletes.
The bout is slated for **eight rounds**, with **10-ounce gloves**, raising concerns regarding Paul’s safety given the weight disparity. As he prepares for the fight, Paul expressed gratitude for his supporters, stating, “I’m just so blessed to be here with so many fans and supporters. And tomorrow night, we’re going to put on a show.”
With both fighters bringing their unique narratives to the ring, anticipation builds for what promises to be an electrifying event.
