Jake Paul reveals comeback plan after Anthony Joshua knockout and broken jaw recovery, hints at explosive UFC star Francis Ngannou clash

Jake Paul is ready to step back into the boxing ring after a tough loss and a long recovery. The American boxer said he is finally feeling better after suffering a broken jaw in his fight against Anthony Joshua in December 2025.

Now, he has a clear plan for his comeback, and he already has a big name in mind. Paul wants to fight former UFC champion Francis Ngannou, and talks between the two are already heating up.

Jake Paul opens up on broken jaw recovery after Anthony Joshua fight and confirms comeback timeline

Jake Paul faced Anthony Joshua at the Kaseya Center in Miami, where the fight ended in the sixth round with a knockout. Right after the fight, Paul was taken to the hospital. Doctors later confirmed he had a broken jaw.The injury was serious and needed more than one procedure. In February 2026, Paul shared that he had to go through another treatment because he was still feeling some effects from the injury.Now, things are slowly getting better. Speaking to TMZ Sports’ Michael Babcock, Paul gave a clear update on his condition. He said, “I’m finally feeling healthy again. The jaw is definitely recovering.”He also shared when fans can expect him back. “I think it’s either late 2026 or early 2027,” Paul said.Taking time away from boxing helped him reset. He explained that the break made him realize how much he still loves the sport.

“I stepped away from the sport for a little bit and it revitalized my energy to want to come back,” he said. “I’m excited to come back in and continue to do massive events.”

Francis Ngannou responds to Jake Paul callout as both fighters look to bounce back from Anthony Joshua losses

Jake Paul is not just planning a return—he already has an opponent in mind. He wants to fight Francis Ngannou, the former UFC heavyweight champion who has also been trying to build his boxing career.Ngannou also fought Anthony Joshua earlier, in March 2024, but lost by knockout in the second round.

At first, Ngannou had said he was not interested in fighting Paul. But things changed after Paul made some comments.Last month, Ngannou said, “I’m not interested in fighting Jake Paul, I’m interested in beating his a–.” Paul quickly responded with, “I’m down.”Paul also compared their performances against Joshua. He pointed out that he lasted longer in the ring. “I think [Ngannou] getting knocked out unconscious by Anthony Joshua in like one or two rounds and then seeing me just take on Anthony Joshua for six rounds,” Paul said.

“Obviously, I ended up on the canvas too, but not unconscious.”He believes that difference matters. “I think he realized like, ‘oh snap, this kid is actually a lot better than I thought.’ I think me versus Francis is an amazing fight.”For now, nothing is official. But both fighters are talking, and both are coming off losses. That makes this possible matchup even more interesting for fans.