82% of Bets on Paul: Joshua’s Win Helped Bookmakers Avoid Major Payouts

^{Pictured: Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua}

On December 20, Anthony Joshua defeated Jake Paul by knockout in the sixth round. The bout was streamed on Netflix and became one of the most talked-about boxing events of the year.

According to DraftKings, as reported by ESPN, despite being a heavy underdog, Jake Paul attracted around 82% of all bets and nearly 90% of the total money wagered on the fight outcome.

Bookmakers priced a Paul victory at odds ranging from 7.50 to 9.00, while Joshua was listed as a strong favorite at approximately 1.07–1.08.

Had Paul won, bookmakers’ potential payouts could have reached hundreds of millions of dollars. In addition to the main market, bets were also offered on prop markets, including method of victory, handicap bets, and the total number of rounds.

Users on Polymarket actively shared their reactions in the comments under the market. One bettor, who placed $57,800 on a draw, wrote bitterly: “We messed up, guys.”

Among other notable wagers, rapper Drake reportedly placed $200,000 on Paul to win, losing the entire stake.

Gambling Park previously reported on an expensive gift Joshua received from Polymarket. In total, the fighters were estimated to have earned up to $186 million from the bout.