Shock ring twist revealed hours before Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua as fans explode online
Final details come into focus
With fight night approaching, attention has shifted away from training footage and press conference theatrics to the technical details that shape what happens once the bell rings.
Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua are scheduled to fight in Florida on 19 December, with viewers in the UK able to watch in the early hours of 20 December. The bout is professionally sanctioned and will be streamed globally on Netflix.
In the lead up, there had been uncertainty around the rules. Paul’s previous contest against Mike Tyson featured shorter rounds and larger gloves, prompting questions about whether similar adjustments would appear again.
According to LADbible, reporting by journalist Emma Rosemurgey confirmed that organisers have opted for standard professional boxing regulations. The fight will consist of eight three minute rounds, with both fighters using regulation 10oz gloves.
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Eddie Hearn confirms late ring decision
One final adjustment emerged shortly before the fight. Eddie Hearn, chairman of Matchroom Boxing, said in an interview with IFL TV that the bout will take place inside a 22 foot by 22 foot ring.
While within the rules, this places the ring toward the larger end of the scale. Professional boxing rings typically range from 16 to 24 feet, meaning the fighters will have more space than usual to work with.
Paul later addressed the issue himself during the final pre fight press conference, saying the size fell comfortably within normal limits and did not concern him.
Online reaction splits opinion
The announcement quickly sparked debate among fans, with many speculating about how the extra space could influence tactics.
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Several observers suggested the larger ring may allow Paul to rely more heavily on movement and distance management, while others argued it would give Joshua more time to set up his attacks.
Rather than focusing on individual quotes, the reaction across social media reflected a wider divide over whether the conditions subtly favor the less experienced boxer or simply add another layer of intrigue to an already unusual matchup.
Weight agreement sharpens pre fight focus
The ring discussion comes alongside confirmation of an agreed upper weight limit for Joshua, an uncommon provision in heavyweight boxing.
The 36 year old has committed to weighing no more than 245lbs, a figure similar to his weight in previous fights against Oleksandr Usyk. Paul, who is shorter and naturally lighter, has said publicly that gaining mass has been a challenge and expects to weigh between 215 and 225lbs.
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Together, the weight agreement and ring size have become focal points in pre fight analysis, underscoring how even small details can shape expectations ahead of the opening bell.
Sources: LADbible, Emma Rosemurgey, IFL TV
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