Get ready for a boxing match that’s dividing opinions and sparking debates—Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul. Yes, you read that right. The former two-time heavyweight world champion is stepping into the ring with the YouTuber-turned-boxer, and the boxing world is buzzing with controversy. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: Derek Chisora, Joshua’s close friend and fellow boxer, has shared his unfiltered thoughts on the fight, and they’re bound to stir the pot.
In a recent interview on talkSPORT Breakfast, Chisora revealed that he’s privately messaged Joshua, urging him to end the fight early—very early. ‘If this goes past five rounds, people will be annoyed,’ Chisora warned. ‘You can’t let it drag on. AJ needs to finish Jake within one or two rounds. If it goes longer, people will start doubting his skills.’ Chisora even drew a parallel to Joshua’s knockout of Francis Ngannou in Saudi Arabia, suggesting that’s the kind of decisive victory fans expect.
But here’s where it gets controversial: While many see this fight as a mismatch, Chisora takes a more nuanced view. ‘We’re in the game of entertainment,’ he explained. ‘People will buy tickets to watch this, and that’s what matters.’ He even praised Jake Paul, acknowledging his ability to promote himself and make things happen. ‘Kudos to the kid,’ Chisora added. ‘He’s a great promoter.’
And this is the part most people miss: Joshua himself has defended the fight, citing its commercial potential. ‘I’m here to do massive numbers, have big fights, and break records,’ he declared. ‘Mark my words, more fighters will take these opportunities in the future.’
The fight, scheduled for December 19, has already faced criticism from some corners of the boxing community. talkSPORT pundit Gareth A Davies even suggested it shouldn’t be professionally sanctioned. Yet, it’s a fully licensed bout that will count on both fighters’ records. So, here’s the burning question: Is this fight a legitimate sporting event or a spectacle designed purely for entertainment?
Chisora, for one, isn’t bothered by the backlash. ‘I’m happy for AJ,’ he said. ‘He’s doing this for himself.’ And while Joshua is the overwhelming favorite, the pressure is on him to deliver a quick and decisive victory. Anything less, Chisora warns, could tarnish his reputation.
What do you think? Is Joshua vs. Paul a legitimate fight or a circus act? Let us know in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.