Without a Script, Anthony Joshua Will Rapidly Knock Jake Paul Out - Hearn States

I've got no substantial justification for AJ versus Jake Paul. It's insane that it's taking place and I believe the critics are right.

But, we just couldn't reject it. No fighter who is sensible would have declined. Anyone who says they would are utterly dishonest through their teeth.

We accepted a fight which we think is extremely easy, will provide AJ an enormous presence in the United States and one of the highest earnings.

The Plan For the Fight

AJ was going to have a run-out fight in November in Saudi Arabia - an eight-round contest against an opponent who was ranked around 100th in the heavyweight rankings.

This was an opportunity to wrap the hands by his fresh coaching staff, do the ringwalk and get some rounds in. Currently, we're doing that exact tune-up but for fifty times the purse.

We possess a clear game plan in mind - to knock Jake out as soon as possible. Then, we return to regular business resuming next year.

AJ will fight against a top-tier opponent in February and - if all goes well - he will then face Fury.

So there is logic to this madness and accepting this bout does not affect AJ's legacy. However a loss against Jake or the fight even going the distance would.

It would be a complete disaster and terribly embarrassing.

This Bout Is Not Scripted

So many people have come up to me asking if it's scripted. Firstly, we would be investigated by authorities if it was. It would be against the law. This constitutes a professional contest and an officially sanctioned match on which fans are wagering.

And do you think I would ever permit AJ to have a pre-written plan with Jake? A script in which we could lose or even hold him up? Absolutely not.

We are certainly not giving this guy an advantage or a chance to claim "I told you I was better than AJ" or "I took rounds from him". That would be devastating for Anthony Joshua and we're not going to risk that.

Expectations for a Quick Finish

There are also those who say if Anthony Joshua does not knock him out inside the first round then it's a disgrace.

He's expected to dominate this guy but, goodness, give him two to three rounds for safety. Because how Jake approaches it will reflect on the speed of the finish.

If he gets brave, it will all be over rapidly. However if he is boxing on the back foot and attempting to tie him up and stick and move, then he might last a few rounds.

We will not see AJ charge across the squared circle immediately and begin swinging wildly.

Just like he did against Ngannou, he will go into the ring, size him up and then unleash with the heavy artillery.

Paul Can Whack Somewhat

I've heard the likes of Roy Jones Jr and Teddy Atlas saying you cannot dismiss Jake Paul in this bout. Am I losing the plot ? Is there anything they're seeing that I am missing?

Let's get one thing right - Jake Paul is a professional boxer. I think he is a respectable cruiserweight - ranked in the top 70 globally.

This isn't an individual who has never put on boxing gloves previously. He is able to whack with some power. He's sparring Okolie and top-ten heavyweights.

Forgetting the victory against Mike Tyson, who was then well past his prime, Jake defeated Chavez Jr - who may have been a done fighter but was hardly a total pushover.

Chavez Jr prepared for the fight and had been a world champion who went to points with Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez and nearly stopped Martinez late in the fight.

Therefore I give credit to Jake Paul for his hard work and demonstrating respect for the sport of boxing and he has done a great deal for women's boxing through his promotion company.

Yet in spite of his delusion, passion, dedication and improved skills, he should be being knocked out by Anthony Joshua.

Once Joshua Connects, It Is Finished

Jake and his team are banking on many factors. Banking on AJ is underestimating him, hoping AJ is shot, banking on AJ's lack of activity will be a factor, hoping AJ lacks confidence, hoping AJ's durability isn't what it once was.

However, to their misfortune, AJ is extremely focused. He's had a camp and he is preparing like he's fighting Usyk or in a Dubois rematch.

I expect Anthony Joshua to triumph within two rounds with a brutal knockout.

He could hit Jake Paul to the body and it could break his ribs and he would be unable to get up.

Should he land flush, he will put him spark out. Alternatively could intervene.

We don't know exactly how it will unfold however with the way AJ punches - with the speed and destruction - as soon as a punch lands on the chin, the contest will end.

Then we go back to AJ's primary objectives he wants to achieve in the time of his career in boxing - to fight Tyson Fury and to be crowned a three-time heavyweight champion of the world.