Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.
Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”
He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the graphic language used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”
Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.
Biggest Shock in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”