The Florida Athletic Commission have confirmed an important rule for the controversial heavyweight clash between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua
Paul vs. Joshua is hours away from taking place as Netflix will broadcast the pro fight that has been condemned by critics and fans alike.
Safety concerns have been raised given the sheer size difference between the two boxing stars.
Joshua towered over his opponent in their face-off at the pre-fight press conference on Wednesday, sparking fears over Paul's safety.
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Some have questioned the legitimacy of Paul vs. Joshua, with members from both camps, including Matchroom chief Eddie Hearn, refuting suggestions the bout is 'scripted'.
It has even been claimed that 'AJ' is stipulated to take it easy on Paul and may be restricted from knocking him out.
However, according to BBC Sport, the Florida Athletic Commission, who will be overseeing Paul vs. Joshua, have confirmed knockouts are allowed in the contest.
The Brit will be gunning for a knockout victory as he aims to return to the win column, having suffered a knockout defeat to Daniel Dubois in his last outing.
Speaking to TMZ Sports, Joshua insists it is not written in his contract that he must take it easy on Paul amid speculation claiming otherwise.
"I understand their concerns, but this is the thing with Jake, they have got to start believing in him," he explained.
"They don’t believe it because they’re saying, 'how is he beating these guys?'.
"I think they [the fans] can’t get their heads around how he has beaten Anderson Silva, how did he beat Nate Diaz? How did he beat Mike Tyson?"
Joshua added: "I am telling you, there is no stipulation in the contract where I have to take it easy on him."
How to watch Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua if you don’t have Netflix
If you don’t already have Netflix, there is a workaround to essentially get it for ‘free’ as part of a bargain bundle.
Sky is currently offering its ‘Stream on Screen’ package - including Netflix, discovery+ and much more - for just £15/ month. It’s Sky’s lowest-ever price and will allow you to watch the big fight live along with Sky Atlantic, Sky Stream and Sky Essential TV.
Browse deals here.
Topics: Anthony Joshua, Jake Paul, Boxing
Nasir Jabbar