'That's a bad idea': UFC boss fears for Jake Paul as Anthony Joshua fight builds momentum

UFC president and boxing promoter Dana White believes Jake Paul fighting Anthony Joshua would be a "bad idea" as it looms more and more likely the bout will happen.

In recent days, the fight has been billed as one that could happen on December 19 in Miami after Joshua's promoter Eddie Hearn confirmed there's been talks.

A reporter at the UFC 322 press conference asked White if he'd seen the fight that was being worked on for that specific date and location.

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White looked confused - presumably by not being asked about the specific fighters - and asked the question back before saying "no".

Another reporter then said "Jake Paul, Joshua" bringing an immediate "oh Jesus" response.

"That's a f---ing bad idea, that's a bad idea," he said.

"But let me tell you this, a lot people will watch that one."

White confirmed he'd be one of those viewers.

"You know what everyone is tuning in for on that one," he added.

"I think everyone is going to get what they've finally been waiting for."

The Daily Mail has recently reported the prize pot could be $282.5 million AUD.

Joshua's last fight was 14 months ago when he was beaten by Daniel Dubois.

As for Paul, he fought in June and beat Julio Cesar Chavez Jr after previously defeating the legendary Mike Tyson in late-2024.

White and Paul have long exchanged words between each other in a never-ending rivalry.

In 2022, Paul offered to retire from boxing and fight Jorge Masvidal if he agreed to a set of demands for paying UFC fighters, like increasing the minimum fighter pay and provided long term healthcare.