Great example of media manipulation. Paul’s “suspension” is a 45 day medical hold before training. Joshua to “lose $66 million” is taxes being withheld from his $140 million. The article is framing it as something illegal happening and punishment being administered. Embarrassing pic.twitter.com/eG2hBhVG8h
— PJ Paul (@RealPJPaul) December 21, 2025
Jake Paul faces a mandatory medical suspension from boxing following his sixth-round knockout loss to Anthony Joshua in Miami. Paul sustained a broken jaw in two places during the fight, requiring surgery to insert titanium plates. Florida State Athletic Commission rules mandate a minimum 45-day suspension for a knockout, which could be extended to 60 or 90 days due to the severity of his injury. The fighter shared an X-ray and update, stating, “Just got out of surgery. Everything went smooth… Lots of pain and stiffness.”
Despite his victory, Anthony Joshua is also subject to a mandatory seven-day suspension under standard boxing regulations. The physical toll, however, is not the only consequence for the British champion. Joshua is facing a significant financial penalty due to taxation on his winnings. He and Paul each reportedly received a prize purse of approximately $140 million AUD for the high-profile bout.
The location of the fight has created a major financial disparity. Because the event was held in the United States, Joshua is liable for multiple layers of taxation. He must pay a U.S. federal income tax of 37%, amounting to about $52 million AUD from his total purse. This is in addition to taxes and contributions owed in his home country.
Upon returning to the United Kingdom, Joshua must also pay British tax to His Majesty’s Revenue and Customs, estimated at $11.3 million AUD. A further $2.8 million AUD is due for National Insurance contributions. These combined payments will see Joshua part with approximately $66 million AUD of his fight earnings.
In a stark financial twist, the defeated Jake Paul will ultimately retain more of his prize money. Paul, as a U.S. resident, is only subject to the single 37% U.S. federal tax on his earnings. This leaves him with a larger net sum than Joshua, the fight’s winner, who is left with an estimated $74 million AUD after all deductions.
Both fighters are now in a period of recovery and assessment. Joshua’s mandatory suspension is short, while Paul’s recovery from a broken jaw will keep him out of the ring for a longer period. The bout’s outcome highlights not only the physical risks of boxing but also the complex financial implications for internationally competing athletes.