Jake Paul is setting his sights on a return to the squared circle by the turn of the year, with a potential showdown against Tommy Fury emerging as the most logical next step, according to Nakisa Bidarian, a partner at Most Valuable Promotions (MVP). Paul, the former YouTube sensation turned professional boxer, has been out of the ring since his high‑profile defeat to Anthony Joshua in December 2025, a bout that ended with a broken jaw in two places after a brutal sixth‑round stoppage.

Since that loss, Paul has devoted himself to an intensive rehabilitation program, focusing on both physical recovery and strategic planning for his next fight. Bidarian told Sky Sports that the timeline for Paul’s comeback is firmly anchored to the end of the calendar year or, at the latest, January of the following year.

"In terms of timing, we continue to focus on the end of this year or January. That's the timeline for his return," she said, underscoring the promotion’s confidence that Paul will be ready to step back into the ring within the next five months. The stakes are high for Paul.

The loss to Joshua was only the second blemish on his 14‑fight record, the first being a split‑decision defeat to Tommy Fury back in 2023, a fight that saw Fury knocked down in the final round but still edging Paul on the judges' scorecards. Despite the setbacks, Paul has built a résumé that includes victories over former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson, former middleweight champion Julio César Chávez Jr., and ex‑UFC fighter Nate Diaz.

These wins have helped him earn a measure of legitimacy within the boxing community, and Bidarian believes the moment has arrived for Paul to settle the score with Fury. "If we're able to come to terms with Tommy, that's the fight that makes the most sense," Bidarian explained. "If you think about where they were three years ago, it's the perfect opportunity to show the world that both of them have evolved as boxers." She highlighted that both fighters have matured technically and mentally since their last encounter, making a rematch an intriguing narrative for fans and a potential catalyst for further growth in their careers.

For Paul, the fight represents a chance to prove that he has moved beyond the level of his previous opponents and can compete with top‑tier talent after a serious injury. "For Jake, coming off the loss to AJ, this is his chance to really demonstrate that he has moved to another level," Bidarian said. "And for Tommy, this is his opportunity to say the Jake Paul story has come to an end." The dynamic creates a compelling storyline: a redemption arc for Paul and a chance for Fury to cement his own standing by defeating a high‑profile rival.

When asked about the hurdles that could prevent the bout from materialising, Bidarian cited three primary factors: financial considerations, public expectations, and the broader economics of the sport. "Money, expectations and the reality of the economics," she noted, indicating that negotiations will need to balance the lucrative draw of both names with realistic purse structures and broadcast agreements. Since Paul’s loss to Joshua, Fury has remained active, securing victories over fellow YouTuber KSI via points decision and defeating former World's Strongest Man Eddie Hall by majority decision in a Misfits Boxing exhibition in June. These wins have kept Fury in the public eye and have added depth to his own résumé, further justifying the potential for a high‑stakes rematch with Paul.

The broader boxing calendar for 2026 is already shaping up with several marquee events, and a Paul‑Fury clash could become a centerpiece of the season. Fans are eager for a fight that not only settles personal scores but also showcases the evolution of two athletes who have transitioned from internet fame to legitimate boxing contenders. If the negotiations succeed, the bout could be broadcast on major platforms such as Sky Sports Action, with streaming options available through services like NOW, ensuring a wide audience. In summary, Jake Paul is on a disciplined path toward a comeback, targeting a January 2026 return with Tommy Fury positioned as the most logical opponent.

The fight promises to be a litmus test for both men’s development since their last meeting, offering a narrative of redemption, progression, and the business realities of modern boxing. The outcome could have lasting implications for their careers, influencing future match‑making decisions and the commercial landscape of the sport.