The British heavyweight boxer, Lawrence Okolie, has offered his help to Jake Paul to prepare for his fight against Anthony Joshua, even proposing sparring sessions.
The expected showdown between Paul and Joshua, scheduled for eight rounds with 10-ounce gloves, will take place in Miami.
This fight will mark Joshua’s return to the ring after his technical knockout defeat in the fifth round against Daniel Dubois in September 2024.
Okolie, former cruiserweight champion, is in full preparation for his own fight on the same day as Paul and Joshua, December 19, in Nigeria. It will be his first appearance since July, when he suffered a biceps injury in the first round.
Okolie wants Paul to have a realistic experience of what it means to face a world-class heavyweight. In addition, the British boxer questions what motivates Paul to face a rival of Joshua’s caliber. Okolie has been Joshua’s sparring partner in the past and, although he acknowledges the great difference in size and skill, he does not rule out that the fight could extend beyond what is expected. Okolie commented that, according to the information he has from Joshua, he doesn’t believe that he will go for a quick knockout. However, he warns that if Paul manages to connect significant blows, the situation could change drastically. Okolie reflected on the possibility of Joshua using the fight as a training session, but also recognizes that in boxing, unexpected things can happen.I want to help Jake Paul, give him a chance. I don’t want him to be destroyed in a round if AJ wants to.
Lawrence Okolie
