Anthony Joshua’s record-breaking payday from his exhibition bout against Jake Paul has been significantly reduced by taxes, showing how global sports earnings can be heavily impacted by government levies.
Joshua reportedly earned $92 million from the Miami fight, part of a $184 million purse split equally between him and Paul. While this represents the largest single payout of Joshua’s career, a substantial portion will go to taxes.
U.S. federal income tax is expected to take roughly 37 percent of his earnings, or about $52 million. In addition, he faces around $11.3 million in U.K. taxes and $2.8 million in National Insurance contributions, bringing his total tax bill to approximately $66 million.
With no state income tax in Florida, Joshua’s estimated take-home pay stands at about $74 million from a gross of roughly $140 million tied to the event and related revenue.
The fight itself was short but decisive. Joshua dominated before landing a right-hand knockout in the sixth round, leaving Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer, unable to recover.
While both fighters earned the same purse, Paul’s tax situation is simpler. As a U.S. resident, he will pay taxes only in the U.S., keeping a larger share of his winnings. The difference highlights how location and residency can shape net earnings as much as the outcome in the ring.
The bout also comes at a critical moment in Joshua’s career. Earlier this year, he fell off Forbes’ 2025 list of the world’s 50 highest-paid athletes. In 2024, he ranked 16th with pre-tax earnings of about $83 million, boosted by four victories in the ring and endorsements from brands including Under Armour, Beats by Dre, and Lucozade.
