Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”
He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his response.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
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 gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”
