MANCHESTER – Moses Itauma is “getting behind” Jake Paul when he takes on his former stablemate Anthony Joshua on December 19 in Miami, Florida.
Many were surprised to see that the two-time heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist Joshua had been selected by Paul as his next opponent. The YouTube star turned boxer has faced criticism across his career for not fighting worthy opposition. Paul normally selects old and past their best champions, such as the 58 year old Mike Tyson he defeated over 12 rounds in November 2024, but there is nothing to complain about with the selection of Joshua.
Joshua may not be the feared heavyweight he once was, and is coming off a devastating fifth round knockout defeat to then-IBF heavyweight champion Daniel Dubois in September 2024. That defeat saw Joshua part ways with Ben Davison, who also trains Itauma, and is now rumoured to be linking up with Team Usyk out in Spain ahead of the fight with Paul.
Itauma, speaking ahead of his clash with Jermaine Franklin on January 24, was asked by BoxingScene and select members of the media for his thoughts on his former stablemate's recent fight announcement.
“The money that gets thrown around, people like that can step in the ring with a two-time heavyweight champion,” Itauma said.” It's got a bragging power in it. Listen, I don't hate on any man that's trying to do well. Jake Paul has smashed life, conquered YouTube, now he's trying to conquer boxing, although I don't think it's going to be as easy as he thinks.
“Fair play to him, I'm going to be behind him because I like to see a man strive for success,” said Itauma. “Although I don't want to see him beat AJ [Anthony Joshua], I'm going to be behind him for his success story.”
Tom Ivers is an amateur boxer who has a master’s degree in sports journalism. He had his first bout in 2013, joined BoxingScene in 2024 and is now a key part of the UK and social media teams.
