🔗 Share this article

Fighter's Mindset

"I'm going to injure his face and hurt his body. I'm here to prove my superiority," Joshua, 35 years old, said.

"I will dominate him completely. That's how fighters think.

"I'm going to genuinely try to cause him pain. That's my intention."

Civil Interaction

In spite of those words, a calm Joshua and social media star Jake Paul - normally known for his showmanship - exchanged pleasantries and maintained decorum with each other.

Jake Paul instead criticized ex Joshua opponent the Cameroonian fighter and labeled him "ridiculous" after Ngannou declined a match opportunity.

Taking Aim at Fury

Anthony Joshua, at the same time, targeted UK rival Fury - and rejected a £1m bet 'Tyson Fury' claims he will make on a Paul victory.

"[Paul] is superior to Fury - he's actually sitting here," Joshua commented.

"I acknowledge that."

Legitimate Fighter

In spite of saying he intends to damage his opponent, Joshua chose not to talk badly about his rival's fighting skills.

"Jake Paul is a serious fighter," he said.

Paul's Background

Paul - who first rose to fame on the television network - has mostly boxed mixed martial artists or faded names since turning professional.

He was defeated by British fighter Fury in 2023.

Financial Success

Nevertheless, the inexperienced fighter remains one of boxing's greatest financial successes, frequently receiving huge financial rewards.

Forecast and Confidence

The 28-year-old forecast a stoppage in round four or five and claimed he would stop the long-awaited Joshua–Fury fight, which is allegedly under discussion for 2026.

"It will be me versus Tyson Fury next year," Paul said.

Physical Difference

As Joshua and Paul engaged in the usual stare-down, with their size difference evident, it highlighted just how improbable this complete situation is - and how astonishing it is that the bout is actually going ahead.