Jake Paul has said he is prepared to take legal action against critics who claim his upcoming fight against Anthony Joshua is staged, pushing back against allegations that have followed the bout since it was announced.
The heavyweight contest, scheduled to headline Netflix’s live boxing card in Miami on Friday, has attracted intense attention not only because of Joshua’s résumé as a former world champion, but also because of Paul’s unconventional route into professional boxing.
Wilder questions legitimacy
The latest controversy was triggered by comments from former WBC heavyweight champion Deontay Wilder, who suggested the matchup raised red flags.
“I think it’s scripted a little bit because of the weight difference, and Joshua is a former champion,” Wilder said.
Read also: Zidane is in focus, Deschamps is in the dark
Accusations of this nature are a recurring feature of high-profile crossover fights, particularly those involving social-media stars transitioning into elite-level boxing.
Promoter denies fixed-fight claims
Promoter Eddie Hearn dismissed the allegations during fight-week media appearances, insisting there is nothing artificial about the contest. Speaking to iFL TV, Hearn said claims of a pre-arranged outcome were unfounded.
“I mean so many people think it’s scripted. I don’t really know what to tell you. We would never take part in a scripted fight,” he said.
“There is no part of Anthony Joshua that wants to or will ‘take it easy’ on Jake Paul.”
Read also: Harry Kane’s Ballon d’Or response says plenty without saying much
Hearn also confirmed that a minor rule adjustment has been agreed for the bout, though he said it does not alter the competitive balance or expectations inside the ring.
Paul threatens legal response
Paul responded forcefully to Wilder’s comments, saying repeated allegations of a fixed fight could have legal consequences. He said he would begin by issuing formal warnings before escalating further.
“I give them a cease and desist letter through their door,” Paul said.
“Then the lawsuit is coming right after because these people will not stop lying.
Read also: Roy Keane gives Manchester City stars brutal message over medals after guilty verdict
“I honestly take it as a compliment, but people need to shut the f**k up.”
Paul added that there are no contractual clauses limiting the intensity of the contest.
“There’s nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it that we’re going to war,” he said.
“At the end of the day, that’s what all of my fights have been like.”
Fight week builds toward Friday
Paul and Joshua met at a press conference on Wednesday and are due to appear together again at Thursday’s ceremonial weigh-ins before fight night in Miami.
Read also: Where Erling Haaland could end up if he leaves Man City
While skepticism has followed Paul throughout his boxing career, no evidence has emerged to support claims that his previous bouts were fixed. At 28, Paul has made clear that he intends to confront such accusations directly both publicly and, if necessary, through the courts.
Sources: iFL TV
Read also: Javier Tebas breaks silence on what should happen to Man City next
