Anthony Joshua has gained media attention by endorsing the YouTuber before of the much awaited fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. This fight, which is slated for July 20 and will be aired live on Netflix, has drawn a lot of interest even though it was first classified as an exhibition.

Speculation regarding the result has only increased since Tyson made it clear that a fight will take place. According to reports, both boxers might decide to use 16-ounce gloves rather than the customary ten-ounce ones, presumably to lessen the force of their blows. There are also rumors that the fight will take place in two-minute rounds.

“This is called an exhibition, but if you look up exhibition, you won’t see any of the laws we’re fighting under,” Tyson noted.

“This is a fight. I don’t think he’s faster than me. I’ve seen a YouTube video of him at [age] 16 doing weird dancing. That’s not the guy I’m fighting.

“This is a guy who’s really going to try and hurt me, which I’m accustomed to, and he’s going to be greatly mistaken. Right now, I’m scared to death. As the fight gets closer, the less nervous I become because it’s reality, and in reality I’m invincible.”

Joshua’s remarks

The age disparity between the two men, with Tyson at 58 and Paul considerably younger, raised concerns among commissions, leading to the match not being sanctioned as a professional fight. Nonetheless, with the event given the green light, Joshua has voiced his belief that Paul holds the edge over Tyson.

“I personally think it’s really good,” Joshua said.

“I think the boxing hardcore don’t like it because they think, ‘Why are they disrespecting our sport? [And] I think that person brings all these people into boxing, which benefits everyone else. Everyone viewing helps. He’s [Mike Tyson] older now. I pray that he comes out healthy. I think Jake Paul because of youth – that’s the only thing.”