Matchroom CEO Frank Smith has refuted claims that the upcoming fight between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua will be fixed.
Reports emerged last week suggesting that Joshua and Paul were in the final stages of arranging a match for this Christmas. On Monday, it was officially announced that the heavyweight showdown is set to take place on December 19 in Miami, spanning eight three-minute rounds with both fighters using 10oz gloves.
Contrary to speculation, the outcome of the fight will be reflected in their professional records. Despite facing allegations of fixing fights since his debut in 2020, Paul has consistently denied any wrongdoing. However, critics within the boxing community have criticized the legitimacy of the fight, labeling it as ‘rigged.’
In response to the skepticism, Matchroom’s Frank Smith dismissed the insinuations just weeks before the anticipated bout. He emphasized that it is a standard eight-round professional fight, similar to any other professional match.
Scheduled for December 19 in Miami, the heavyweight clash between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul will be live-streamed on Netflix. Fans can access the fight for free through Sky’s £15 Essential TV bundle, marking the brand’s ‘lowest ever price’ for Sky TV.
Smith highlighted Joshua’s intent to win decisively, stating that the British boxer is focused on knocking out Paul in the upcoming match. The fight was a result of Paul’s persistent call-outs to boxers, with Joshua ultimately accepting the challenge. Smith revealed that discussions accelerated after a proposed fight with Gervonta Davis fell through, leading to the quick arrangement of the Joshua-Paul match.
The Matchroom CEO admitted that he initially did not foresee Paul challenging someone of Joshua’s caliber, suggesting that Paul may have pushed his limits. The fight is expected to commence around 11pm local time in Miami, potentially coinciding with 4am in the UK. The event’s timing aims to cater to the American audience and may be adjusted depending on the undercard duration. Viewers can watch the event live on Netflix.