British heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua and American social media personality Jake Paul have entered the closing stages of discussions for a December boxing match in Miami.
The encounter will be streamed on Netflix, the same platform that had been set to host Paul's now-cancelled bout.
Ring Magazine reports that talks between the two camps have progressed significantly in recent days.
The match represents a surprising turn for both competitors, bringing together the former unified world champion and the controversial YouTube star who has carved out a boxing career.
Jake Paul's team are confirming details with Anthony Joshua
| PA/DAZNThe streaming giant's involvement continues its recent push into live combat sports broadcasting.
The match emerged following the collapse of Paul's planned encounter with Gervonta Davis this Saturday.
The American lightweight champion faces domestic violence accusations, forcing the cancellation of their scheduled contest.
Both competitors find themselves at pivotal moments in their careers during 2025.
Paul has struggled to secure high-profile opponents following his unanimous decision victory over Julio Chavez Jr in the summer.
Anthony Joshua has not fought since his defeat to Daniel Dubois in September 2024
|GETTY
The 28-year-old American previously defeated Mike Tyson, 59, last November before his summer triumph.
He subsequently engaged in social media disputes with various boxing figures, including former UFC champion Francis Ngannou, though those discussions failed to materialise into concrete plans.
Eddie Hearn, Joshua's promoter, offered revealing insights on Tuesday about the potential encounter. "We will make a decision this week on Anthony's next fight. If he fights this year, you probably won't even hear about it, unless it's Jake Paul," the Matchroom Boxing chief stated.
He added: "We would literally rock up on fight week. We've already got opponents that we've been talking to about a run-out fight."
These remarks have prompted speculation amongst boxing enthusiasts that the contest might be classified as an exhibition match.
Such a format would mirror the original plans for Paul's cancelled encounter with Davis, potentially allowing for modified rules and conditions.
The physical mismatch presents considerable obstacles for the proposed contest. Joshua tipped the scales at 252lbs 5oz during his previous outing against Daniel Dubois, whilst Paul typically competes around 199lbs.
The American did manage to bulk up to 220lbs for his encounter with Tyson, suggesting he may attempt similar weight gain for this challenge.
Such disparities raise questions about potential weight restrictions and rule modifications.
Jake Paul had been looking for a new opponent after Gervonta Davis pulled out
|REUTERS
For Joshua, the bout would mark his return following thirteen months away from competition.
The British fighter has remained inactive since suffering defeat to compatriot Daniel Dubois last year, making this potential December appearance a significant moment in his career trajectory.