Fri Nov 21 19:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Woodley Steps In to Face Silva on Paul vs. Joshua Undercard After Weidman Injury
Miami, FL – A change in opponent has been announced for Anderson Silva on the undercard of the highly anticipated Jake Paul vs. Anthony Joshua “Judgment Day” event, set to air live on Netflix on December 19th at the Kaseya Center in Miami. Former UFC Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley will now face Silva in a six-round cruiserweight bout, replacing the injured Chris Weidman.
Both Silva and Woodley are familiar with Paul, having previously faced “The Problem Child” in the boxing ring. Silva suffered a close decision loss to Paul in 2022, while Woodley lost twice, first via split decision in August 2021, and then by brutal knockout in the rematch that December.
“I believe that change always happens for a reason,” Silva said in a statement. “I am focused on doing a good job. Always respecting my opponent and showing total respect to the boxing world.”
Woodley, who held the UFC welterweight title from 2016 to 2019, expressed his excitement for the opportunity. “Rising to occasions like this are the moments where legends are born,” he stated. He is looking to secure his first win in professional boxing against the MMA legend.
The rest of the undercard remains largely unchanged from the originally planned Gervonta Davis event. Alycia Baumgardner will defend her unified super featherweight titles against Leila Beaudoin in the co-main event. Cherneka “Sugar Neekz” Johnson will defend her undisputed bantamweight title against Amanda Galle, Yokasta Valle will put her WBC strawweight title on the line against Yadira Bustillos, and Avious Griffin will face Justin Cardona in a welterweight fight. Additionally, two-time Brazilian Olympian Keno Marley will make his professional debut in a four-round cruiserweight fight against Diarra Davis.
“Anderson Silva vs. Tyron Woodley is an iconic matchup, continuing to elevate Jake vs. Joshua: Judgment Day into one of the most scintillating combat sports events of the decade,” said Nakisa Bidarian, CEO of Most Valuable Promotions. “This is the gladiatorial sport spectacle of the 21st century. Bringing back two of the MMA GOATS into the spotlight on a global stage, live on Netflix, reflects the magnitude of this card.”
The WBA super lightweight title fight between champion Gary Antuanne Russell and Andy Hiraoka is no longer featured on the card.
With a revised main card opener and a championship-laden undercard, the Paul vs. Joshua event promises to be a night to remember for boxing fans worldwide.
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