'The Problem Child' headed to Miami seeking a mammoth upset, but seldom caused any issues for the two-time former heavyweight champion.

Nevertheless, Paul's stock remains undimmed by the manner of his defeat, and the American has already vowed to return to fight again in 2026.

A cruiserweight comeback in pursuit of world titles is the path he reportedly wants - but is it the only one he can take as he pursues his options?

DAZN News studies the next options for Paul after his loss to AJ - and just what each will mean for his future as a professional athlete, too.

A cruiserweight title bid

Paul has openly spoken about his desire to be recognised as a world champion, and with cruiserweight his natural division, it is his best shot.

Already ranked by the WBA, the star will want to move towards a title opportunity sooner rather than later, and could well do so during 2026.

Champions in his division have openly entertained the prospect of facing him before, such as Jai Opetaia and Gilberto 'Zurdo' Ramirez.

That being said, even with rounds banked against Joshua, Paul will surely know that he needs to take on a few lower-placed foes first.

Come through with a couple of wins, and this time next year, he might well be in the frame to launch an audacious bid for silverware too.

A superstar show-bout

Paul's biggest fights have come against some of the largest names - past and present - in boxing, ranging from Mike Tyson to this latest clash.

Let it be remembered, the Joshua fight was brought together at short notice to plug the gap left by Gervonta 'Tank' Davis, set for November.

'The Problem Child' knows his greatest audiences turn up for a dance partner with a name that cuts through beyond the sport's usual borders.

He has frequently suggested other heavyweight foes, such as Oleksandr Usyk, and there will be others who would bite and take a crack at him.

Paul will have plenty to think about over the festive period - and it may well be that he settles for a succession of bigger draws to tangle with instead.

Farewell to the ring?

There is one shock option that perhaps Paul might take, despite evidence to the contrary - hanging up his gloves and bidding goodbye to the ring.

The star is a busy man, not only running Most Valuable Promotions, but with a fleet of other business enterprises outside of his boxing career, too.

His dreams of silverware may not have been realised, but the punishment he took against Joshua also exposed the serious dangers of his choices.

A double jaw break will force him away from the ring for some time - and he may well decide that this is where he draws the line on his exploits.

Paul can surely remain a member of the team, helping to champion fighters old and new. But perhaps his body will tell him now is the time to go.

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