YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul has disclosed how two-time heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua highly praised his efforts during a Dubai meeting some two years ago. As Paul was starting to carve out a niche for himself within the squared circle with notable victories over Ben Askren, Tyron Woodley, and Anderson Silva, he decided to unwind in Dubai after defeating Silva.
During this time, ‘The Problem Child’ not only soaked up the sun but also had duties which included commenting on Tommy Fury’s exhibition match with Rolly Lambert.
Meanwhile, Anthony Joshua was mixing training with relaxation in Dubai. There, Jake Paul trained alongside Joshua’s mate Lawrence Okolie and even shared some fun playing laser tag with the renowned boxer.
Over time, Joshua hasn’t shied away from lauding the rise of YouTube pugilists, having been featured in videos with the likes of KSI and Joe Weller, even gracing events such as Deji’s clash with Alex Wassabi by his presence.
Reflecting on these events in 2022 while conversing with Anthony Pompliano on his podcast, Jake Paul expressed that receiving acknowledgment from boxing icons means everything to him: “To me that means the most when the legends of the sport are like ‘this kid’s legit and what he’s doing for the sport is great’. It’s easy to get lost in the comments and in the sheep hating on you.
“But then there’s guys like Roy Jones Jr, Evander Holyfield, Tyson, all these legends showing love. Even Tyson Fury, current active champions, or Anthony Joshua.
“I was just with him and he was singing praises; that to me means more [than online hate]. I haven’t really seen [many boxing legends badmouth him]. Which I guess is kind of the tell-tale sign; if your peers respect you then that’s the most important”.
A year before their meeting in the Middle East, Joshua was asked about the young American and his rise in the sport. “[He’s] great for boxing”, the heavyweight said during an interview with IFL TV.
“He’s trying, zero amateur experience, throwing himself in the deep end. He’ll probably learn a lot more than a lot of fighters, throwing himself in the deep end, putting himself under pressure. Good luck to him.”
Two years after their meeting, Paul continues to establish himself as one of the biggest stars in influencer boxing.
The 27-year-old is currently preparing to take on former undisputed heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson on November 15 in Texas. Meanwhile, Joshua, the British star, was recently defeated by Daniel Dubois, suffering a devastating knockout in the fifth round at Wembley in September.