Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Statements Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.
His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
But Joshua, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything 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 not personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his response.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”
