Deontay Wilder Makes Cautious Prediction for Jake Paul–Anthony Joshua

Deontay Wilder Calls The Fight 'Scripted'

Without holding back, he explained why the matchup feels unusual to him, starting with the massive size and experience gap.

"You know, for me, in my opinion, I think it's scripted a little bit because, you know, the weight difference and, you know, Joshua is a former… champion," Wilder said, highlighting that Joshua not only owns elite credentials but is also active and sharp heading into the bout.

Wilder pointed out that this is the first time Paul has stepped in with an active professional boxer. "We've seen the Mike Tyson… that was all fun, that was cute," he said, noting that entertainment-based matchups are one thing — but this is a different level. Facing a live, dangerous, current heavyweight is a new frontier entirely.

"Now you're dealing with a real professional… and so we'll see how it ends up."

Despite his doubts, Wilder emphasized one thing above all: fighter safety. "I just want everybody to have fun… we risk our lives for others’ entertainment… just go home safely… and say we did a great job." He wrapped the interview the only way Wilder can — "Bomb squad."

Wilder’s cautious read adds another layer to a matchup already heavy with questions. Whether fans agree with him or not, his message is clear: enjoy the spectacle, but respect the stakes.