Sunday December 21, 2025
www.thenewsdesk.ng
Nigerian-British heavyweight Anthony Joshua recorded a knockout victory over American boxer Jake Paul on Saturday night, stopping the social media star-turned-fighter in the sixth round of their heavyweight bout in Miami, United States.
The contest, set for eight three-minute rounds rather than the standard heavyweight duration, came to an end when Joshua sent Paul to the canvas for the fourth time with a powerful right hand, sealing his 26th career knockout.
Despite being widely regarded as the underdog, Paul, 28, surpassed pre-fight expectations by lasting into the later stages of the bout. The influencer-turned-boxer, who has seven knockouts on his record, showed determination and toughness but found it difficult to cope with Joshua’s experience and punching power.
Joshua tightened his grip on the fight in a dramatic fifth round, flooring Paul twice before finishing proceedings in the sixth with a relentless combination of heavy blows.
Reflecting on the contest, Joshua acknowledged that the outing was not his sharpest display but was satisfied with the outcome. “It wasn’t the best performance. It took a bit longer than expected, but the right hand finally found its destination,” he said.
He also commended Paul for his bravery and perseverance throughout the fight. “Jake did well tonight. He got up time and time again. It takes a man to keep trying in there, and he deserves respect for that,” Joshua added.
The former world champion said the victory marked a strong comeback following a 15-month absence from the ring and indicated he was ready to pursue more demanding fights. He challenged Tyson Fury to face him next, insisting the heavyweight division needed a genuine test.
Paul later disclosed that he suffered a broken jaw during the bout and declined to identify his next opponent, saying he would step away from boxing after his second professional defeat.
