What seemed destined to be one of boxing’s most eye-catching crossover events—Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua—has officially fallen apart. Insiders confirm that the collapse was less about training or contract disputes and more about a war between streaming giants Netflix and DAZN. Now, instead of facing the former heavyweight champion, Paul is pivoting toward a surprising exhibition bout against lightweight star Gervonta “Tank” Davis, scheduled for November 15, 2025, in Atlanta.
Why Did Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua Fall Apart?
The fight between YouTube sensation-turned-boxer Jake Paul, who has rapidly become Netflix’s flagship name in combat sports, and Anthony Joshua, a former two-time world heavyweight champion under exclusive contract with DAZN, collapsed due to broadcast rights disputes.
According to industry sources, DAZN refused to release Joshua for a Netflix broadcast, while Netflix stood firm that Paul’s fights would only stream on its platform. With both companies unwilling to budge, negotiations stalled, contracts were never finalized, and the fight dissolved into a PR mirage.
A feature by Boxing247 summed it up bluntly: “Paul’s team whispered about AJ like the fight was nailed down… just smoke, mirrors, and press bait.”
This breakdown underscores a new reality in boxing: network politics and exclusive streaming deals can carry more weight than the fighters themselves.
Jake Paul’s Pivot: Exhibition Bout Against Gervonta Davis
With the Joshua fight officially dead, Jake Paul has moved swiftly to his next spectacle. He is now set to face WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis in a catchweight exhibition at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on November 15, 2025.
This matchup raises eyebrows due to the dramatic weight difference. Paul usually fights around 200 pounds, while Davis competes near 135 pounds. The fight will be broadcast exclusively on Netflix, signaling the streamer’s commitment to positioning Paul as a global combat sports attraction rather than a traditional title contender.
For Davis, this marks a detour from his expected rematch with Lamont Roach Jr. Roach reacted to the announcement on social media, posting a pointed, “Told ya lol,” clearly frustrated by the change of plans.
Entertainment Over Competition?
Boxing purists have already voiced concern that the Paul–Davis exhibition reflects entertainment-first matchmaking. Rather than merit-based competition, these fights appear designed to maximize streaming numbers and media attention.
Still, Paul has consistently leaned into spectacle as part of his brand strategy. From crossover opponents to heavy marketing campaigns, the influencer-turned-fighter has shown a knack for staying in the headlines—even when his bouts don’t materialize.
Industry insiders suggest the Joshua talks may have been just as much about keeping Paul’s name trending as about genuine matchmaking. If true, the pivot to Davis proves Paul’s camp is more interested in sustaining hype cycles than pursuing conventional boxing routes.
What This Means for Boxing in 2025
The failure of Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua reveals a growing fault line in modern boxing: broadcast exclusivity. Just as boxing once fractured under promotional rivalries, today’s fights risk collapsing under platform wars.
Netflix is investing heavily in Paul as a combat entertainment figure.
DAZN continues to guard its stable of elite fighters, with Joshua at the forefront.
Fighters themselves are often caught between corporate interests, limiting the matchups fans crave.
In this case, Joshua remains with DAZN, Paul continues his Netflix partnership, and fans are left with what some see as a “spectacle mismatch” against Gervonta Davis.
Yet, spectacle has its value. Netflix is betting on crossover entertainment—casual fans tuning in for novelty, headlines, and social buzz. And with Paul’s proven ability to draw attention, the Davis exhibition could still be one of the year’s biggest streaming sports events.
Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua may have collapsed, but the story illustrates how boxing is being reshaped—not just by fighters in the ring, but by boardroom decisions in media companies.
The bottom line: What could have been a blockbuster heavyweight showdown has turned into another chapter in Paul’s media-driven boxing saga, leaving fans both intrigued and divided.
For your information
Why did Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua collapse?
Because Netflix and DAZN refused to compromise on exclusive broadcast rights. Paul is signed to Netflix, while Joshua remains with DAZN.
Who will Jake Paul fight instead of Anthony Joshua?
Jake Paul will face Gervonta “Tank” Davis in a catchweight exhibition fight on November 15, 2025, in Atlanta.
Is Jake Paul vs Gervonta Davis a real boxing match?
No. It is officially an exhibition, built more for spectacle and entertainment than competitive sporting merit.
What weight difference exists between Paul and Davis?
Paul typically fights around 200 pounds, while Davis competes near 135 pounds—a massive weight gap.
Will Anthony Joshua fight Jake Paul in the future?
At present, it looks unlikely. Unless DAZN and Netflix reach a new agreement, the fight remains dead.
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