Jake Paul Announces Boxing Comeback 10 Months After Anthony Joshua Knockout

American boxer and social media personality Jake Paul has announced his return to professional boxing, confirming that he will headline a Christmas Eve event in Dubai on December 24, 2026.

The 29-year-old made the announcement on Thursday, October 29, nearly a year after suffering a sixth-round knockout defeat to former heavyweight world champion Anthony Joshua.

Paul sustained a double jaw fracture during the December 19, 2025, fight in Miami and underwent multiple surgeries to repair the injury.

In a statement announcing his comeback, Paul said the defeat and injury had not weakened his determination to continue his boxing career.

“I’ve spent years proving people wrong, taking risks, and pushing myself against opponents nobody thought I’d face. Nothing that’s happened has changed my belief in myself or what I’m working toward,” he said.

He added that he was returning to the ring to begin the next chapter of his career.

Paul’s promotional company, Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), confirmed that the event would take place in partnership with the Dubai Sports Council and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.

However, his opponent has yet to be announced, with the promotion saying further details would be released in the coming weeks.

MVP co-founder and chief executive Nakisa Bidarian said the comeback marked Paul’s return to competition after suffering a double jaw fracture against Joshua.

Paul has a professional record of 12 wins and two defeats, with seven victories coming by knockout. His losses have come against British boxer Tommy Fury and Joshua.

The December event will mark his first professional fight since the Joshua defeat and his first appearance in a boxing ring in Dubai.

Paul has indicated that several names are being considered for the comeback bout, although no agreement with a potential opponent has been confirmed.