YouTube star turned professional boxer Jake Paul has disclosed the gruelling aftermath of his defeat to Anthony Joshua, revealing he must consume only liquids for a week following surgery on a jaw broken in two places.
The Brutal Conclusion in Miami
The American social media sensation was stopped in the sixth round of his heavily-publicised bout with former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua. The fight took place in Miami on Saturday night, culminating in a crushing right hand from Joshua that left Paul unable to continue.
Paul bravely rose after the final knockdown, but the referee had seen enough, calling a halt to the contest. In the aftermath, Paul confirmed he suffered a double fracture to his jaw and underwent a successful operation at Miami University Hospital.
Recovery and Reflection on the Fight
Providing an update via social media platform X on Saturday, Paul wrote: ‘Just got out of surgery. Everything went smooth. Thanks for all the love. Lots of pain and stiffness. Gotta eat liquids for 7 days.’ He praised the hospital staff for their care during the procedure.
Reflecting on the loss, the 28-year-old attributed his downfall to fatigue, suggesting a better ‘gas tank’ might have extended his challenge. ‘I just got tired, to be honest,’ Paul admitted. ‘It was just so much handling his weight. I think if I could have had better cardio, I would have kept it up.’
He conceded Joshua’s power was a decisive factor, stating: ‘He hits really hard, and I did my personal best. I got my ass beat, but that’s what this sport is about. I’m a come back and keep winning.’
Joshua's Mixed Feelings and Praise for Paul
Despite securing a clear victory, Anthony Joshua, an Olympic gold medallist and two-time world champion, was self-critical of his performance. ‘No, I needed to do better. I needed to do better,’ Joshua responded when asked if he was happy. ‘It’s a win, but it’s not a success. I think my coach expects more from me and I expect more from myself.’
However, the British fighter did commend Paul’s resilience and courage for stepping into the ring. ‘Jake done well while it lasted,’ Joshua said. ‘I wish I could have knocked him out at the start, but as we saw, Jake has spirit. He has some heart and I take my hat off to him.’
He highlighted the psychological aspect of boxing, noting a key moment where he felt he took his opponent’s ‘soul’. Joshua also pointed out that many established fighters have avoided facing him, giving Paul credit for taking the risk.
The fight itself was a slow burner, with a frustrated referee, Christopher Young, admonishing both men in the fourth round, telling them: ‘Fans didn’t pay to watch this crap.’ The action intensified thereafter, leading to Paul’s fifth and sixth-round knockdowns and the eventual stoppage.
