Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua: Puncher or Pretender?

Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua: Novice Puncher or Real Threat?

Jake Paul has long begged to be taken seriously in boxing. Now, he faces Anthony Joshua, a two-time world heavyweight champion, in one of the most polarizing matchups the sport has seen.

Paul’s Unlikely Rise in Boxing

Paul, a former YouTuber and Disney actor, has converted fame into ring revenue, calling out everyone from retired UFC legends to boxers like Canelo Alvarez. But this time, he’s stepping up in a legitimate professional bout against a top-tier opponent.

At 28 years old, Paul is no longer just an entertainer dabbling in boxing. He’s trained full-time in a £3m facility in Puerto Rico, with a full camp including respected professionals like:

• Conditioning coach Larry Wade

• Head trainer Theo Chambers (of Kronk Gym lineage)

• Former title challenger J’Leon Love

His sparring partners include:

• Former world champion Lawrence Okolie

• Rising star Jared Anderson

• Cuban contender Frank Sanchez

Still, most experts don’t give Paul a chance.

Trainer and Fighter Opinions

• Joe Gallagher: “I worry about Jake’s health.”

• Richie Woodhall: “Joshua is the hardest puncher I’ve had on pads.”

• Natasha Jonas: “It’s wild. But Jake’s serious about boxing.”

• Cassius Chaney: “Paul’s awkward and athletic. He’s getting better.”

Despite the elite training setup, many rank Paul at “area level” at best — a level far below British title contention, let alone world class.

Strengths & Weaknesses of Jake Paul

Strengths:

• Athleticism & power

• High boxing IQ for a novice

• Financial resources allow elite preparation

• Awkward, unorthodox style

Weaknesses:

• Limited real fight experience

• Lacks ring craft and composure under pressure

• Never faced anyone like Joshua

 Joshua Factor: Dangerous and Devastating

Anthony Joshua is no stranger to non-traditional matchups, but the risk here isn’t competition — it’s safety. When Joshua faced Francis Ngannou, he ended the fight with a chilling right hand in under two rounds.

Most predict similar devastation for Paul.

• Woodhall: “If he tries to have a go, he’ll get blown away.”

• Jonas: “Could be over in 10 seconds.”

• Gallagher: “Fans will be timing it with a stopwatch.”

The Verdict

Jake Paul may surprise some with improved skill, but there’s a wide gulf between promotion and pedigree. While his team claims he’s no longer a novice, the overwhelming consensus is that Paul doesn’t belong in the same ring as a heavyweight legend.

This may not just be a mismatch — it could be a message to every influencer-turned-fighter: there are levels to this sport.