Boxing fans across the United Kingdom have been issued a stern legal warning ahead of the multi-million-pound heavyweight showdown between Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul this Friday night.
The Multi-Million Pound Showdown
The two stars are set to trade leather in a professional bout scheduled for eight three-minute rounds in Miami, Florida on Friday, December 19. Both men will wear 10oz gloves for the contest, which boasts a reported total prize pot of £140 million, split equally between the fighters.
For Jake Paul, this marks his return to the ring following a decisive points victory over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr in June. Anthony Joshua, meanwhile, will be looking to bounce back from a devastating fifth-round knockout loss to Daniel Dubois at Wembley Stadium in September 2024.
The Netflix Broadcast and Licence Fee Warning
The blockbuster fight will be streamed live globally on Netflix, requiring a standard subscription starting from £5.99 per month. While no extra pay-per-view fee is required, UK viewers have been forcefully reminded of the national broadcasting regulations.
Under UK law, anyone watching live television – including via streaming apps like Netflix, ITVX, or BBC iPlayer – must hold a valid TV licence. The annual cost for a licence is currently £174.50 per household. Those caught streaming the Joshua vs Paul fight without one risk a fine of up to £1,000.
This rule applies on a per-tenancy basis, meaning individuals in shared rented accommodation may each need their own licence depending on their rental agreement.
Joshua's Knockout Promise
Ahead of the fight, Anthony Joshua has left no doubt about his intentions, stating that merely winning on points will not be enough. "It's not a win for me if I just beat him; I need to knock him out," the Brit declared.
He added: "I'm going to break his face and break his body... I want to hurt him, I'm going to want to really hurt him in the ring. I’m going to come forward and impose myself." Joshua vowed to expose Paul to a "different school of boxing" he hasn't yet experienced.
With millions expected to tune in worldwide, the clash represents a major moment for boxing's crossover into mainstream streaming, but UK fans must ensure they are on the right side of the law to enjoy it.
