American boxer and social media star Jake Paul has announced that he will return to the ring in Dubai on Thursday, December 24, 2026, on Christmas Eve. It will be his first professional bout in Dubai and will take place about a year after his defeat by Anthony Joshua.

Boxing promotion company Most Valuable Promotions, or MVP, announced the news on Thursday, October 29.

Return after defeat by Anthony Joshua

The 29-year-old Paul faced former world heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua in Miami, US, on December 19, 2025, losing by knockout in the sixth round.

Paul suffered a broken jaw in two places during the bout and underwent several operations to treat the injury.

Paul, who began his professional boxing career in 2020, has recorded 12 wins and two defeats, with seven victories by knockout.

In a statement, he said the recent defeat and injury had not undermined his confidence and that he was now more motivated to continue his professional career.

Paul also described Dubai as a city that pursues ambitious goals and refuses to accept limits, qualities he said made it an ideal location for his return.

Who will Jake Paul face in Dubai?

Although the fight date has been announced, Paul’s opponent, the venue, broadcast platform and ticketing details have yet to be confirmed.

Nakisa Bidarian, co-founder and chief executive of MVP, said negotiations to select a suitable opponent were continuing and further information would be released in the coming weeks.

Dubai Sports Council partners to stage the fight

The event will be held under a partnership agreement between the Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and MVP.

Paul previously faced former world heavyweight champion Mike Tyson in November 2024, winning by decision.

According to figures released by MVP, the Paul-Tyson fight attracted about 125 million viewers across the live broadcast and the following day. His bout against Anthony Joshua recorded about 33 million viewers worldwide based on the same measurement.

Organisers said further details about the Dubai fight, including Paul’s opponent and ticketing information, would be announced later.