Jake Paul reportedly targets another former heavyweight champion over Anthony Joshua

After consecutive wins over Mike Tyson and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr, Jake Paul appears ready to pivot from fighting legends of the past to challenging another prominent heavyweight of the present. Fans and analysts initially speculated a showdown with Anthony Joshua, but Paul’s next move remains uncertain as he seeks a high-profile opponent to maintain momentum.

Speculation around potential matchups has intensified as Paul’s team explores opportunities that could maximize both competitive and commercial impact. Discussions have reportedly included several former champions, indicating that Paul is serious about staying in the spotlight and taking calculated risks.

According to Wilder’s former trainer Malik Scott, Paul’s camp has made its intentions clear. “Jake is dead serious about the Deontay Wilder fight. I’ve been in New York for the Katie Taylor fight and I just met Jake Paul’s partner [Nakisa Bidarian], literally three minutes ago. And the first thing he said was, ‘we’re interested in the Deontay Wilder fight’. They’re just so serious,” Scott told Thunderpick.

Is a Jake Paul vs. Deontay Wilder fight realistic?

Wilder, 39, returned to action in June with a seventh-round stoppage win over Tyrrell Herndon, snapping a recent slump where he had lost four of his previous five fights. Despite his age, Wilder would still likely enter the bout as a strong favourite against Paul, who continues to pursue high-profile opponents to build his boxing legacy.

Though Anthony Joshua’s promoter, Eddie Hearn, maintains that a Paul fight remains likely, Joshua has reportedly prioritized a bout with Tony Yoka, with insiders suggesting Yoka has a 90% chance of landing the matchup. This shift in focus leaves Paul with Wilder as a compelling alternative to maintain momentum in the heavyweight spotlight.

Paul’s next move could redefine his trajectory in boxing. Whether the bout with Deontay Wilder materializes or a clash with Anthony Joshua eventually happens, fans can expect another high-stakes, headline-grabbing heavyweight showdown.