Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Comments Directed at Jake Paul
The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.
These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, defended his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and playfully touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations
The unusual nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”
He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”
A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”
