Well, it happens. Anthony Joshua, the former world heavyweight boxing champion, looks set to battle Jake Paul in a Netflix boxing superfight within weeks. A lot of people can’t quite believe it’s happening, but it certainly feels like both men are serious about stepping into that ring on December 19th.
RELATED: Anthony Joshua Teamed With Oleksandr Usyk Before Jake Paul Fight
Many people wonder why exactly Joshua chose to continue fighting Paul. Others worry that Jake will be seriously injured, which, considering the opponent in front of him, is a serious possibility.
In a recent media battle, Joshua explained why this fight is happening and why he said yes to it.
Joshua looks ahead to Paul’s fight
“You have talent and marketability in boxing,” Joshua said, explaining to MMA Junkie and other reporters his decision to box Paul. “The way it goes now unfortunately is that you can have the two best fighters with the best skills, but they have no marketability, so they won’t be able to show their talent to the world because broadcasts are not interested and fans are not interested. So what we have to do is bring the marketability into the realm of skills. That’s why I always try to focus on bringing attention to the sport.
“Young boxers, I always say, ‘Don’t wait until you become a champion to show the world who you are.’ Then it’s too late. You have to get people following you so that by the time you are a champion, everyone is ready to buy a ticket. ‘I want to see this man. He’s in town.’ Therefore, we must include the aspect of marketability. I looked at it and said, ‘Wow. This is a great opportunity to show myself to the whole world. God willing, I’ll get the job done, hurt Jake in spectacular fashion, and get a victory.” All that market then comes to me, and I can focus on other fighters who have pure skill and need this promotion.
“I don’t want to focus on it being about Jake: ‘Oh, Jake is small, so that gives me confidence. Jake is this, so that gives me confidence,’” Joshua said. “I just focused on myself. I’m confident in myself. He could be 10 feet tall, and I’m confident in myself. It’s not about how he is. I have a good tea. I’ve been through ups and downs. I’ve stood the test of time. I’m passionate. I’m hungry and I’m here to vent. I’m confident.”
Quotes via MMA junkie
#Anthony #Joshua #explains #fight #Jake #Paul #sense #BJPenn.com