Eddie Hearn labeled Jake Paul a “madman” as reports indicated a deal for Paul to fight former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua nears completion. Hearn promotes Joshua and reflects views shared by many who assess a matchup between the 6-foot-6 Joshua, with 13 title fights, and the 6-1 Paul, with 13 total pro bouts.
Joshua holds a 28-4 record with 25 knockouts. Paul stands at 12-1 with seven knockouts. Hearn told the BBC that Paul has developed into a genuine professional, yet he insisted Joshua operates on a far higher level. He said Paul embraces the challenge with a reckless mindset.
Former world champion Buddy McGirt questioned whether any boxing commission would approve the bout. McGirt noted that Joshua, 36, owns vastly deeper experience against top-tier opponents than Paul, 28.
He added that if regulators approve the matchup, he believes Paul carries a legitimate chance to win. McGirt earned the IBF junior welterweight title in 1988 and held the WBC welterweight title from 1991 to 1993. He later trained champions such as Arturo Gatti, Antonio Tarver, and Hasim Rahman.
McGirt admitted some uncertainty over whether both men would fully commit to an all-out contest, yet he still considered the scenario possible. He said Paul punches with real force but lacks exposure to anyone like Joshua. He gave Paul a “50-50 shot,” reminding observers that heavyweights can end fights suddenly.
McGirt cited Joshua’s explosive performance against Francis Ngannou. Joshua dropped Ngannou in the first round and knocked him out in the second. McGirt recalled walking toward the exit after the first knockdown because he expected a quick finish.
Trainers Debate Paul’s Strategic Choices
Respected trainer Gloria Thornton-Peek, who worked with Claressa Shields before her 2012 Olympic gold run and coached male fighters such as Andre Ward, argued that Joshua’s career stands in decline.
She claimed Paul consistently targets opponents who have stepped away from the sport or drifted from their peak. She said Paul capitalizes on fighters who no longer possess their sharpest form. She argued that he positions himself advantageously, making his path to victory far smoother and removing the need to take major risks.
Adonis Frazier, a retired pro turned trainer who guided David Morrell during his WBA title reigns, emphasized that heavyweight boxing always allows room for a sudden knockout. He compared it to a basketball blowout where fans leave early, while boxing demands attention until the final second.
Frazier said Joshua’s veteran experience creates a demanding challenge for Paul. He also noted the business appeal: Joshua draws massive support in the UK, and Paul leverages a huge social-media following. Frazier stated that if Paul loses, he can still claim he fell to a former heavyweight champion, an outcome that does not damage him as a cruiserweight.
Coaches Weigh Chance and Risk
Johnathon Banks, a former IBO cruiserweight champion who trained Gennady Golovkin, Wladimir Klitschko, and Badou Jack, insisted that every fighter holds a chance. He argued that Paul carries a greater opportunity than most because he enters the ring with nothing at stake.
Banks said a man with nothing to lose becomes dangerous, and he believes Paul fits that description completely.
