Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Controversial "Kill" Statements Towards Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”
Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.
But Joshua, defended his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Retort
Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”