Dana White Shames Jake Paul, Anthony Joshua, and Netflix for Putting Up ‘Embarrassing Fight’

Dana White talks about how Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul was not a good move for the sport while it may have proved lucrative for those involved.

Dana White Shames Jake Paul, Anthony Joshua, and Netflix for Putting Up ‘Embarrassing Fight’

Dana White criticizes Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua (via talkSport)

Anthony Joshua’s knockout of Jake Paul on December 19 emerged as one of the biggest combat sports headlines in recent times. The fight attracted significant attention due to Paul’s controversial status and polarizing presence among boxing and MMA audiences. While the matchup was widely watched and enjoyed by many viewers, UFC CEO Dana White did not share that view, criticizing the bout.

Inside the ring, the fight was largely one-sided as Joshua controlled the action from the opening rounds. Paul was repeatedly dropped to his knees under sustained pressure and clean punches. The bout ended in the sixth round when the British heavyweight landed a straight right that produced the knockout. Paul was later seen spitting blood, and post-fight reports confirmed he had broken his jaw in two places.

Despite the one-sided nature of the bout, Joshua appeared measured and did not push for an immediate finish. He allowed Paul to land occasional punches as the fight moved into the middle rounds, extending the contest beyond its early stages. Several figures within the combat sports community noted this afterward. White, however, completely disregarded the fight altogether when addressing it recently.

It’s crazy that that fight was even allowed to happen. I don’t know. As long as people want to pay to watch him fight, I guess he can keep doing it. It’s just not what I do. To even comment on it, I think everybody that was involved in that thing should be embarrassed, No. 1. And No. 2, it’s just not what I’m into. Not my thing.

Dana White via Complex

White’s criticism was also challenged by the financial success of the event. The Joshua vs. Paul fight reportedly generated around 33 million viwers on Netflix. Both fighters were said to have earned approximately $92 million each. The combined payouts accounted for the full $184 million purse tied to the bout; however, Paul later disputed that it was $267 million.

White’s criticism of the ‘Problem Child’ has remained consistent for several years. Paul has repeatedly targeted the UFC CEO over fighter pay and revenue sharing within the organization. In response, White has long questioned Paul’s boxing career and overall legitimacy. He has frequently criticized Paul for facing older opponents and fighters who had already retired from competition.

Dana White’s comments ultimately highlighted the wider divide over crossover boxing events involving nontraditional fighters. The Joshua vs. Paul bout underscored how commercial success and sporting purity are often judged differently within combat sports. While such fights continue to draw major attention and revenue, they also fuel debate about regulation and matchmaking standards.

Fans react to Dana White’s criticism of Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul

Many fans agreed with Dana White’s criticism, citing the current state of boxing as increasingly problematic. They pointed to mismatches and crossover fights that prioritize spectacle over competition. Comments highlighted concerns about fighter safety and the integrity of high-profile bouts. This perspective resonated with viewers who value traditional standards in the sport.

Dana White
Dana White (via The US Sun)

While some fans agreed with White’s criticism, others argued that Jake Paul still achieved a major payday despite the loss. They noted that financial success and exposure were significant, with Paul reportedly earning millions from the fight. Supporters emphasized that crossover bouts can be lucrative, even if they draw criticism from traditionalists.

Many fans concluded that Dana White is on a mission to reshape the boxing landscape through Zuffa Boxing. They noted his efforts aim to restore the sport’s credibility and competitive standards. White’s focus appears to prioritize matchups with clear merit and athletic integrity. Observers see this as part of a broader push to bring boxing back to its former glory.

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