Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Remarks Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
Jake Paul will meet a significant challenge against former world titleholder AJ.

The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is what I do, 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. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent 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.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
Linda Chapman
Linda Chapman

Elena is a tech journalist and digital strategist with over a decade of experience covering UK tech innovations and startup ecosystems.

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