Jake Paul reveals details of new private messages with Anthony Joshua ahead of potential 2026 showdown
Jake Paul has detailed a surprising exchange with two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, further fueling speculation of a potential blockbuster showdown between the two.
In a new interview, the social media star-turned-boxer opened up about a recent private exchange with the Olympic gold medalist, hinting that a clash between the two could be more than just fantasy.
Speaking candidly about their behind-the-scenes banter, Paul shared details of a direct message exchange that blended friendly rivalry with light-hearted trash talk.
When asked about his relationship with AJ following their phone call earlier this year, Paul said: 'It was all nice [speaking to AJ on the phone]. You know, we've been cordial. He DM'd me today, like saying 'lol' to one of my training clips, and then I sent him a 'lol' of him getting knocked out.'
According to Paul, the exchange was all in good fun but highlighted a budding tension between the two stars.
'I guess we're kind of s*** talking behind the scenes a bit,' he continued. 'But I have a lot of love for Anthony Joshua. I think this type of stuff is funny, and he's a great guy.'
While the Problem Child's jabs were playful, Paul didn't hold back when it came to the idea of stepping into the ring with Joshua.
'A fight between us would be awesome, and I do believe I can win.'
Paul's comments regarding the DM's came just days after he admitted to Ariel Helwani that a fight between him and AJ is likely to take place in 2026.
This isn't the first time Paul has teased a possible bout with Joshua. Back in early 2025, the pair reportedly had a private phone call where tensions ran higher than expected, with Joshua allegedly brushing off Paul's ambitions as a 'publicity stunt'.
Paul, in turn, claimed the British heavyweight was underestimating his skills and influence.
'I know my boundaries,' he said on his podcast BS w/ Jake Paul. 'I want to fight Anthony Joshua because I know that I will f***ing beat Anthony Joshua's a***. He doesn't have a chin, and he has no skill and he's stiff. And I love you, Anthony. We're friends, all this s***, but I want to fight you.'
However, before any dream matchup with Joshua can become reality, Paul must first navigate a dangerous challenge on Saturday, June 28, when he faces former world champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.
'The Problem Child' returns to the ring riding the momentum of last year's headline-grabbing points win over the legendary Mike Tyson. But this time, he's aiming for more than just a victory — he wants to make a statement.
Standing in his way is Chavez Jr, the former WBC middleweight champion and son of boxing royalty, Julio Cesar Chavez — a revered three-division world champion and pound-for-pound great. Despite a turbulent career, Chavez Jr remains a seasoned and dangerous opponent, capable of derailing Paul's ambitions in an instant.
A dominant performance against Chavez Jr would not only mitigate some of critics but also edge Paul one step closer to the mega-fights he's been chasing — names like Canelo Alvarez and Gervonta Davis — and ultimately, that audacious 2026 showdown with Joshua.
For Paul, June 28 isn't just about winning. It's about proving, once again, that he belongs in the conversation — even among the sport's elite.
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