Hearn Reveals Paul’s Strategy to Limit Joshua’s Weight
Eddie Hearn has revealed the reasons behind Jake Paul’s request to set a weight limit for Anthony Joshua, and has admitted his shrewd response to maintain the advantage. Joshua (28-4, 25 KOs) will have to weigh no more than 245 pounds at the official weigh-in, but there is no restriction on his weight inside the ring on December 19. Hearn explained that he told Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions, that Joshua was weighing around 290 pounds to get more favorable conditions.Hearn continued recounting the conversation, mentioning that he refused to consider special gloves or two-minute rounds, but accepted the proposal of an eight-round fight. Paul’s condition was clear: “The only thing is that Jake will weigh around 220 pounds and we want AJ to lose weight.” Hearn added that, given Joshua’s lack of experience in weight cutting, Paul’s request sought to create a disadvantage. In the pre-fight press conference, Paul predicted that he would knock out Joshua, asserting his belief in being able to beat the former unified heavyweight champion.I spoke with [Joshua] and he was at 265 pounds or something like that. I think I told Nakisa he was at 290 pounds or something like that.
Eddie Hearn
