BOXING

Tyson Fury shocks boxing world with unexpected Jake Paul endorsement before potential Anthony Joshua showdown

Tyson Fury surprises fans by publicly backing Jake Paul, sparking debate just ahead of his potential blockbuster clash with Anthony Joshua.

Jake Paul speaks during Netflix's Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 3 – Historic All-Women Fight Card at Madison Square Garden on July 11, 2025 in New York City.
© Photo by Noam Galai/Getty Images for NetflixJake Paul speaks during Netflix's Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 3 – Historic All-Women Fight Card at Madison Square Garden on July 11, 2025 in New York City.

In a surprising turn of events, former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury has publicly endorsed Jake Paul ahead of a potential bout against Anthony Joshua. Known primarily for his dominance in the boxing ring, Fury’s backing of the YouTuber-turned-boxer has shocked many in the boxing community. The endorsement adds fuel to the growing speculation around a high-profile fight between Paul and Joshua, which could shake up the heavyweight division.

Advertisement

Fury, who has teased a comeback from retirement following back-to-back losses to Oleksandr Usyk, expressed confidence in Paul’s chances against Joshua. Despite being new to the professional boxing scene, Paul’s progression and recent performances have impressed Fury, who sees Paul as a legitimate contender.

While Fury himself remains uncertain about returning to the ring due to concerns over his long-term health, his comments add an intriguing angle to the heavyweight landscape. Paul, meanwhile, remains undeterred and ambitious, publicly expressing his desire to face Joshua and eventually Usyk.

Advertisement

Tyson Fury’s bold prediction

When asked about the potential Paul vs. Joshua fight, Tyson Fury didn’t hold back his opinion. “I think Jake Paul knocks him out, Fury told Ring Magazine. “I just think Jake Paul would knock A.J. out … I think Jake Paul’s on the rise. I like his new heavyweight look. A bit chubby, a bit bulky, getting there. And he just did a great job over the aging [Julio Cesar] Chavez Jr.” Fury’s confidence in Paul is rooted in the young fighter’s unorthodox path and his recent knockout victory over Chavez Jr., a former middleweight champion.

Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk exchange punches during the IBF, IBO, WBA, WBC and WBO Undisputed World Heavyweight titles’ fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury as part of Oleksandr Usyk v Tyson Fury 2, Reignited card at Kingdom Arena on December 21, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk exchange punches during the IBF, IBO, WBA, WBC and WBO Undisputed World Heavyweight titles’ fight between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury as part of Oleksandr Usyk v Tyson Fury 2, Reignited card at Kingdom Arena on December 21, 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

Advertisement

Fury also praised Paul’s boldness in calling out fighters across various weight classes, saying, “I like how Jake Paul calls out the full spectrum from featherweight to heavyweight. Who’d he call out Tank [Davis] and Joshua. That’s just crazy. I see Richter scale callouts.” Despite the unconventional nature of Paul’s career, Fury clearly sees something special in his rise, suggesting that the younger fighter has the potential to upset the established boxing hierarchy.

Tyson Fury offers unexpected verdict on potential Anthony Joshua–Jake Paul fight

see also

Fury’s retirement status

Despite his endorsement of Paul, Fury’s own future in boxing remains uncertain. After suffering consecutive defeats to Usyk and announcing his retirement, Fury has been weighing the risks associated with returning to the ring. “At the end of the day, it’s good for the fans to give them what they want but is it really worth my health?” Fury admitted.

Advertisement

Jake Paul’s ambitious vision

Paul has been vocal about his aspirations to fight Joshua and ultimately Usyk, seeking to cement his legacy in boxing history. Speaking to DAZN, Paul confidently stated, “This is where it’s going to happen. We’re going to do the unthinkable and create one of the biggest fights in the history of boxing.”

Survey

What do you think of Tyson Fury backing Jake Paul?

already voted 0 people

Advertisement

When asked about Fury’s endorsement, Paul showed appreciation, calling the former heavyweight champion “a smart lad.” The confidence from Fury provides Paul with added legitimacy as he looks to transition from social media star to serious contender in the heavyweight division.

ALSO READ
Former UFC Champion weighs in on Paul's potential path to victory against Joshua
Boxing

Former UFC Champion weighs in on Paul's potential path to victory against Joshua

Hearn sends strong message to Joshua on retirement ahead of Paul clash
Boxing

Hearn sends strong message to Joshua on retirement ahead of Paul clash

Ex-world champion who lost to Paul makes bold prediction ahead of Joshua fight
Boxing

Ex-world champion who lost to Paul makes bold prediction ahead of Joshua fight

Jones Jr. warns Joshua of the one real threat Paul brings on December 19 fight
Boxing

Jones Jr. warns Joshua of the one real threat Paul brings on December 19 fight

Better Collective Logo