Despite several obstacles, talks of a potential blockbuster clash between YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul and former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua remain alive.
Negotiations between the pair were believed to have advanced earlier this year, with early 2026 discussed as a possible timeline. However, progress appeared to stall in August amid disputes over broadcasting rights, particularly Joshua’s exclusive deal with DAZN.
In the meantime, Paul has shifted his focus to an exhibition bout against Gervonta Davis on November 14. The promotional campaign kicked off Monday in New York, where much of the spotlight unexpectedly shifted to Paul’s potential matchup with Joshua.
Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, reignited speculation when he confirmed to reporters that an “agreement in principle” exists for Paul and Joshua to fight. When pressed for clarification, he emphasized: “To fight each other.”
Paul has also teased fans online, vowing to first “kill David” before moving on to “slaughter Goliath” — an allusion to Davis and Joshua.
While critics see the proposed contest as more spectacle than sport, others argue it could become one of the most lucrative boxing events of 2026 if the broadcasting dispute is resolved.
For Joshua, who is eager to reassert himself on the global stage, the matchup presents both risk and massive commercial upside.
For now, Paul’s immediate attention is on Davis in November, but Bidarian’s remarks confirm that behind-the-scenes discussions with Joshua’s camp are far from over.
