Eddie Hearn has admitted that the announcement of Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul shocked the boxing world, but the Matchroom CEO insists there is no script, no gimmick, and no danger for the former two-time heavyweight champion.

Speaking openly about the controversial crossover bout, Joshua’s promoter acknowledged the scepticism surrounding the fight but made it clear that turning it down was never an option.

“It’s Crazy – But No Boxer Would Say No”

Hearn did not attempt to defend the optics of the matchup, agreeing with critics who believe the contest looks absurd on paper.

“I have no real defence of Anthony Joshua versus Jake Paul. It’s crazy that it’s happening and I think the critics are spot on,” Hearn said.

However, he explained that the financial and promotional upside made the decision unavoidable.

“No boxer in their right mind would have said no. Anyone who says they would are lying.”

According to Hearn, Joshua was already scheduled for a low-risk warm-up bout later in the year—an eight-round contest against a lightly ranked heavyweight. The Jake Paul fight, he said, serves the same purpose but on a dramatically larger scale.

“Now we’re doing that same run-out but for 50 times more money.”

A Strategic Move With Eyes on 2026

Hearn outlined a clear roadmap beyond the Paul fight, insisting that Joshua’s long-term ambitions remain unchanged.

The plan, he says, is simple:

• Defeat Jake Paul decisively
• Return to elite-level competition in 2026
• Target a showdown with Tyson Fury
• Attempt to become a three-time world heavyweight champion

“There’s a method to this madness,” Hearn explained. “Taking this fight does not affect AJ’s legacy—but losing to Jake Paul, or even going the distance, absolutely would.”

Hearn described such an outcome as “an absolute disaster” and “awfully embarrassing,” reinforcing how seriously Joshua’s camp is taking the bout.

No Script, No Gimmicks, No Favouritism

One of the most common questions surrounding the fight has been whether it is scripted. Hearn dismissed the idea outright.

“Firstly, we’d be investigated by the FBI if it was scripted. It would be illegal,” he said.

He emphasised that the bout is fully sanctioned, professionally regulated, and subject to betting markets—making manipulation impossible.

“Do you think I would ever allow AJ to have a script with Jake? A script where we might lose or even look bad? No way.”

According to Hearn, Joshua’s team will not allow Paul even a sliver of credibility from the contest.

Expect Control, Not Chaos, From Joshua

While many fans expect an immediate knockout, Hearn urged patience in judging Joshua’s performance.

“If AJ doesn’t knock him out in the first round, people will say it’s a disgrace,” he said. “But give him two or three rounds just in case.”

Hearn explained that Joshua will not rush recklessly, instead adopting the composed approach that has defined his recent performances.

“He’ll measure him up and then go in with the heavy artillery—just like he did against Francis Ngannou.”

Respect for Jake Paul—But No Illusions

Despite the confident predictions, Hearn acknowledged that Jake Paul is no longer a novelty act.

“Jake is a professional boxer. I think he’s a decent cruiserweight—top 60 or 70 in the world.”

Paul’s recent training partners, including elite-level fighters, and his victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr were cited as proof that he takes boxing seriously.

Hearn also credited Paul for his influence beyond the ring, particularly his support of women’s boxing through Most Valuable Promotions.

That said, respect does not equal belief.

“Despite his dedication and improved skills, he should be getting iced by Joshua.”

“Once AJ Lands, It’s Over”

Hearn was unequivocal in his final assessment of the fight.

“Once AJ lands, it’s over,” he said.

He predicted a knockout within the first two rounds, stressing Joshua’s speed, power, and precision.

“As soon as Jake gets hit clean on the chin, the fight is finished—either by knockout or the referee stepping in.”

Joshua, Hearn added, is training as if he were preparing for elite opposition, not a crossover spectacle.

“AJ is super switched on. He’s training like he’s fighting Oleksandr Usyk.”

What Comes Next for Anthony Joshua?

Once the Paul fight is out of the way, Hearn insists the focus will immediately shift back to Joshua’s ultimate goals:

• A blockbuster fight with Tyson Fury
• Reclaiming the heavyweight crown
• Cementing his legacy among boxing’s all-time greats

For now, however, all eyes are on a bout that has divided fans—but promises fireworks.