Matchroom CEO Frank Smith refutes claims that the upcoming fight between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua will be fixed. Speculations circulated online last week regarding the clash between Joshua and Paul, set to occur on December 19 in Miami. The bout, scheduled for eight three-minute rounds with both fighters using 10oz gloves, will impact their professional records.
Despite previous accusations against Paul for fixing fights since his debut in 2020, he has denied any misconduct in his career. The boxing community has criticized the fight, labeling it as ‘rigged.’ However, Smith dismissed these concerns, emphasizing that it is a standard professional fight.
The heavyweight showdown between Joshua and Paul will be livestreamed on Netflix, available through Sky’s £15 Essential TV bundle. Smith clarified that Joshua is not entering the ring to hold back but to knock out Paul. Paul, who last fought in a decision victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June, had been seeking another match this year and managed to secure the fight with Joshua. Smith revealed that discussions accelerated after Paul’s previous fight fell through, leading to the quick arrangement of the upcoming event.
Scheduled just before Christmas on December 19, the Joshua-Paul clash in Miami is expected to start around 11pm local time, which translates to 4am in the UK. Fight times may vary based on the undercard duration, catering primarily to the American audience. The event will be broadcast live on Netflix.