YouTube sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul has suffered a severe double fracture to his jaw during a punishing knockout loss to former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.
A Devastating Knockout in Miami
The highly anticipated heavyweight clash at Miami's Kaseya Center ended decisively in the sixth round, with Joshua securing a knockout victory over the American social media star. The fight concluded in front of a packed crowd of 19,600 spectators after referee Christopher Young counted Paul out at 1:31 of the round.
Paul, who weighed in at 98kg, was visibly outmatched by the physical prowess and experience of Joshua, who tipped the scales at a formidable 110kg. The English fighter, a two-time heavyweight titleholder renowned as one of the sport's elite power punchers, ultimately proved too much for the determined but fading Paul.
The Fight Breakdown and Surgical Aftermath
After a cautious start that drew criticism, Joshua took control in the fifth round, dropping Paul twice. Sensing the end was near, Joshua came out aggressively in the sixth, rocking Paul with a powerful right uppercut before flooring him with a combination to the head.
Although Paul (12-2) managed to rise to his feet, Joshua (29-4, 26 KOs) sealed the victory by sending him to the canvas for a fourth and final time with another crushing right hand. The bout was officially stopped, dashing Paul's hopes of a major upset.
In the aftermath, Paul took to social media to reveal the extent of his injuries, posting an X-ray image of his damaged jaw with the caption "Double broken jaw." From what appeared to be a hospital room, he assured fans, "thanks for all the support I'm OK."
He later provided an update following surgery, stating that "everything went smooth" but that he was experiencing "lots of pain and stiffness." The YouTuber will be on a liquid diet for seven days during his initial recovery.
Post-Fight Reactions and Respect
Despite the one-sided nature of the contest, Anthony Joshua paid tribute to his opponent's heart and resilience. "It took a little bit longer than expected but the right hand finally found its destination," Joshua remarked after the fight.
He added, "Jake Paul's done really well tonight. I'm going to give him his props. He got up time and time again. I give Jake the respect for trying and trying. He came up against a real fighter tonight."
Ever the showman, even in defeat, Jake Paul hinted at a remarkably quick return, boldly posting on Instagram: "Give me Canelo in 10 days." The comment, likely made in jest, underscores the entertainer's trademark bravado despite the serious injury he sustained in the ring.
