Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Statements Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.
His words were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.
But Joshua, explained his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish your opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.
He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” 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 concluded.
The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims
The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”
He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”