Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua: Fight Analysis, Predictions & How to Watch on Netflix

Joshua vs. Paul: A Boxing Spectacle That Failed to Deliver

Teh recent bout between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul was, to put it mildly, an unusual event. It landed on Netflix amidst concerns that boxing was prioritizing spectacle over genuine competition. Despite being a sanctioned professional contest, the fight felt far removed from the sport’s traditional intensity.

A Disappointing Display

no screenwriter could have crafted a more lackluster narrative. The fight itself was a slow, joyless affair, unlikely to garner positive reviews. Ironically, this underwhelming spectacle likely represents one of Joshua’s most lucrative paydays and broadest audiences to date.

During the fourth round, the referee, Christopher Young, voiced the frustration of many viewers. He urged the fighters to engage, directly telling Paul that “fans didn’t pay to see this crap.” Commentator Mauro ranallo wholeheartedly agreed, calling it “the call of the night.”

Joshua’s Burden and Paul’s Strategy

Joshua had repeatedly stated his intention to “carry boxing on his back.” However, his performance on Friday night felt more like dropping the load, and doing so awkwardly. Paul, meanwhile, appeared focused solely on survival.

Throughout fight week, Paul promised a monumental upset. Instead, he largely avoided meaningful engagement, frequently resorting to grappling tactics reminiscent of his wrestling background. He consistently aimed low, grabbing Joshua’s leg to disrupt his balance.

Lack of Action and Missed Opportunity

The fight was marked by a striking lack of punches from Paul and a series of wild, often ineffective swings from Joshua. Even a novice opponent could easily evade Joshua’s attacks. This resulted in a frustrating viewing experience for fans who stayed up late to watch.

Joshua’s Assessment and the Bigger Picture

Following the fight, Joshua acknowledged his disappointment. “It’s a win but it’s not a success,” he stated, emphasizing the need for critically important enhancement. While Joshua secured a significant purse – reportedly around £210m – the contest offered little value from a boxing perspective.

For many, notably those in the UK who watched into the early hours, the fight felt ultimately meaningless. It raises questions about the direction of the sport and the balance between entertainment and athletic competition.