Who Won the Jake Paul Fight? A Friendly Breakdown of the Paul vs. Joshua Showdown
The world of combat sports loves a good spectacle, and few figures have brought as much attention — for better or worse — to boxing in recent years as Jake Paul. Whether you’re an avid fan, a casual viewer, or someone who’s just heard the buzz online, the question on everyone’s mind after Paul’s latest bout is simple:
Who won the Jake Paul fight?
Jake Paul was defeated by British boxing star Anthony Joshua, who knocked him out in the sixth round of their heavyweight showdown in Miami on December 19, 2025.
Let’s unpack that in a way that’s clear, fun, and easy to follow — from what led up to the fight, to what happened in the ring, and what it all means for both fighters going forward.
A Fight Years in the Making
Jake Paul’s transition from YouTuber to pro boxer has been one of the most talked-about journeys in sports entertainment. Starting from celebrity crossover bouts and spectacle events, Paul has steadily pushed into more legitimate boxing territory over the past few years.
Anthony Joshua, on the other hand, is a seasoned professional. A former two-time unified heavyweight world champion, Joshua has built his reputation over years in the sport with elite competition and big-stage performances.
So when these two finally met in the ring for a legitimate heavyweight match, expectations were high — and opinions were strongly divided. Some saw it as a David-vs-Goliath moment or a novelty attraction. Others viewed it as a true challenge for Paul’s boxing credibility.
The Big Night: Judgement Day in Miami
The bout, billed as “Judgment Day,” took place at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. It was streamed globally — with millions of viewers tuning in to watch what was, by many measures, the biggest fight of Jake Paul’s career.
Here’s how the fight unfolded:
Early Rounds: Respectful Distance
In the first few rounds, both fighters came out cautious. Paul used movement and defence, trying to pick his moments and stay out of trouble. Joshua, the more experienced boxer, looked patient — probing with jabs and looking to measure distance.
For many spectators, it wasn’t a barnburner at first — but it did show Paul’s ability to last against a genuine heavyweight force. Sitting through the early stages, fans and pundits alike wondered: Could Paul really pull off an upset?
Turning Point: Rounds Five and Six
The momentum shifted dramatically in the fifth round. That’s when Joshua began to really find his range and power. Paul, who had been tiring slightly and throwing fewer significant punches, was knocked down — and though he beat the count, Joshua was beginning to take over.
By the sixth round, Joshua’s experience and heavy hands told. A flurry of powerful shots forced the referee to stop the fight, giving Anthony Joshua a knockout victory. Paul’s valiant effort ended in defeat — but he showed heart in lasting into the middle rounds against such a decorated opponent.
What the Result Means
For Anthony Joshua
Joshua’s win was emphatic. For many boxing purists, it underscored the difference between a seasoned world-class boxer and a celebrity turned athlete. At this stage of his career, Joshua needed a solid performance, and that’s what he delivered — demonstrating power, ring IQ, and finishing ability.
This victory could pave the way for more high-profile matchups for Joshua. Some fans are already speculating about potential future fights with other elite heavyweights — and perhaps even reviving talks of a blockbuster bout with rivals like Tyson Fury.
For Jake Paul
Though Paul lost, this fight wasn’t necessarily a disaster for him.
Yes, he suffered a loss by knockout, and boxing fans everywhere saw a clear gulf in experience and skill in the later rounds. But Paul did something notable: he took a real risk. Earlier in his boxing career, many of his opponents were retired champions past their peak or crossover personalities. Facing — and enduring until the sixth round against — a former unified heavyweight champion is a different level of challenge.
In many ways, this fight was a moment of truth for Paul’s boxing credibility. He may have lost, but he also proved he’s willing to step into the ring with established boxing talent — something critics often said he wouldn’t do.
Paul himself has remained philosophical in past comments about setbacks and success, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him regroup, recover, and possibly aim for a different weight class or new opponents down the line.
Beyond the Result: What Fans Are Talking About
The reaction online has been as varied as the fight itself:
- Some fans praised Paul for stepping up to a real challenge and lasting longer than expected.
- Others called the fight “a spectacle” or even a bit chaotic, particularly in the earlier rounds where there was less action than many hoped for.
- Boxing traditionalists were more focused on Joshua’s tactical dominance and how a proven professional generally outclasses a celebrity entrant once the fight gets serious.
