Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Towards Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 paramount, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. 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 perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary exits the ring unharmed, 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 Response
Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon 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 a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back 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 sport.”