American boxer Jake Paul was taken to hospital early on December 20 following his stoppage loss to Anthony Joshua in their highly anticipated heavyweight clash in Miami.
Gossip News Now reports that Paul lasted six rounds with the former two-time world champion but was unable to beat the count after being floored twice across the fifth and sixth rounds. Joshua’s power ultimately proved decisive.
Speaking after the fight, Paul admitted concerns over the severity of his injuries, revealing that his jaw was “definitely” broken. He missed the scheduled post-fight press conference, with his promotional team confirming he had gone for medical evaluation.
Most Valuable Promotions chief Nakisa Bidarian stated that Paul travelled to the hospital under his own power.
“We think he broke his jaw. But he’s fine,” Bidarian said. “He took a shower, drove himself to the hospital. A broken jaw is common in sports, particularly boxing or MMA. Recovery typically takes four to six weeks.”
Paul entered the bout as a heavy underdog, attempting to use speed, movement, and distance to offset Joshua’s size and strength. Despite showing resistance in moments, the difference in experience and natural weight became apparent, sparking criticism over the perceived mismatch.
The YouTuber-turned-professional boxer has spent most of his career at cruiserweight and has already indicated plans to return to that division.
“We will heal the broken jaw, come back, and fight people my weight. I’m going for the cruiserweight world title,” Paul said. “I’m going to take a little break. I’ve been going hard for six years.”
Just months ago, a bout with Joshua seemed improbable, yet the fight went ahead, adding another unpredictable chapter to Paul’s unconventional career.
Before moving up to heavyweight, Paul had been competing at cruiserweight and was ranked number 14 in the WBA in July. After slipping one spot, a return to cruiserweight remains the most logical path for his world title ambitions.
Once cleared to fight in 2026, Paul may target those ranked above him, including Manchester’s Pat Brown, who remains unbeaten in five professional bouts. Paul has also expressed interest in facing four-weight world champion Saul “Canelo” Alvarez or seeking a rematch with Tommy Fury, the only man to have defeated him to date.
