Jake Paul’s leap into heavyweight boxing ended in a painful reality check Friday night, as former world champion Anthony Joshua stopped him in the sixth round and left him needing surgery for a jaw fractured in two places.

Paul confirmed the injury himself the next day, posting an X-ray on social media and writing that he suffered a “double broken jaw.” Then he jokingly called for a fight with Canelo Álvarez in 10 days. In another message from what appeared to be a hospital room, Paul told fans he was OK and thanked them for the support.

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The bout, streamed on Netflix and promoted by Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions, turned sharply in Joshua’s favor as the rounds wore on. Joshua repeatedly found openings with power shots and scored multiple knockdowns before ending it with a clean punch that snapped Paul’s head back and dropped him for the final time.

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By Saturday, Paul said the operation “went smoothly, but the recovery won’t be quick.” He reported significant pain and stiffness. Doctors installed titanium plates and added that he had to stick to a liquids-only diet for at least a week

Joshua’s win was decisive, but the aftermath quickly shifted attention from the spectacle to the damage. Paul has built his boxing brand on bold callouts and fast turnarounds. This was a painful reminder to Paul that he is mortal. A broken jaw doesn’t care about timelines and whatever comes next. His return will start with healing, not hype.

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Ed Middlecoff

Article by Ed Middlecoff

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