Anthony Joshua asserted his dominance in the heavyweight division after stopping Jake Paul in the sixth round of their much-publicised boxing contest held in December 2025.
The bout, which drew global attention due to the contrasting backgrounds of both fighters, saw Joshua rely on experience, power and ring control to dictate the pace from the early stages.
Although Paul attempted to stay competitive with movement and a cautious approach, the difference in pedigree gradually became evident.
Joshua began to apply sustained pressure midway through the fight, backing Paul against the ropes with measured combinations.
That pressure paid off in the fifth round when Paul was knocked down twice following heavy right hands that shifted the momentum decisively.
The end came in the sixth round as Joshua unleashed a flurry that forced the referee to intervene, sealing a knockout victory and ending the contest before the scheduled eight rounds.
Speaking after the fight, Joshua acknowledged Paul’s effort but stressed that elite-level boxing demands years of discipline and high-calibre opposition.
Paul, meanwhile, accepted the defeat and maintained that he intends to continue his boxing career despite the setback.
The fight, streamed live to a global audience, was one of the most talked-about boxing events of the year, blending mainstream sports appeal with crossover entertainment.
Joshua’s victory further reinforces his standing among heavyweight contenders, while Paul’s loss has reignited debate over his long-term prospects in professional boxing.