Boxing

Not Canelo or Mayweather: Jake Paul announces his first confirmed fight for 2026

While Jake Paul is still searching for his next rival, the YouTuber has now confirmed who he will face in his first fight of 2026—and it’s neither Canelo Alvarez nor Floyd Mayweather.

Jake Paul celebrates after scoring a tko in the first round against Ryan Bourland during their cruiserweight fight at Coliseo de Puerto Rico on March 02, 2024 in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.
© Photo by Al Bello/Getty ImagesJake Paul celebrates after scoring a tko in the first round against Ryan Bourland during their cruiserweight fight at Coliseo de Puerto Rico on March 02, 2024 in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico.

The boxing world is waiting for Jake Paul to announce his next fight. However, ‘The Problem Child’ has gone a step further by revealing who his opponent will be in 2026—and it’s neither Canelo Alvarez nor Floyd Mayweather.

While many boxing purists believe Jake Paul is not a legitimate boxer, he has undoubtedly made a name for himself in the sport. The YouTuber is trying to build a professional career, which includes taking on top-tier opponents.

As of now, Jake Paul has not revealed who his first opponent will be this year. Nevertheless, the influencer has taken a bold step by naming the boxer he plans to face in 2026.

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Jake Paul announces his 2026 opponent on social media

Jake Paul’s future remains uncertain, at least for this year. The YouTuber has yet to announce who he will fight next following the Mike Tyson fiasco last year, with many boxers rumored to be interested in facing him.

Not Floyd Mayweather: Jake Paul openly names the only boxer he refuses to fight

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A few days ago, Floyd Mayweather expressed interest in fighting Jake Paul, but only in an exhibition bout. The influencer has also been linked to Canelo Alvarez, but the Mexican star has already confirmed other fights for 2025.

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With no clear opponent lined up for the upcoming months, Jake Paul is looking ahead to 2026 to avoid a similar situation next year. To that end, the YouTuber has announced his first rival for next year.

On X, Jake Paul shared a picture of Anthony Joshua calling him. The YouTuber captioned it “2026,” tagging the British boxer and hinting that he will fight him next year.

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anthony joshua

Anthony Joshua during a weigh-in as part of the Riyadh Season – Wembley Edition card at Trafalgar Square

Recently, Jake Paul claimed that he would easily defeat Anthony Joshua. It seems that this bold statement lit a fire in the British boxer, as he immediately called Paul after hearing those words.

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Will Jake Paul fight this year?

Jake Paul is still trying to build his professional boxing career. He currently holds an 11-1 record, but it seems like he is struggling to find a worthy opponent for his first fight this year.

Jake Paul sets sights on former heavyweight champion after Canelo Alvarez fight falls through

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According to rumors, Jake Paul could fight KSI, another prominent YouTuber, in the coming months. However, Paul is still aiming for a bigger challenge against an elite boxer to strengthen his career.

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