Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Comments Aimed at Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
Jake Paul faces a significant challenge against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked 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 internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“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 continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish 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

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “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 Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously 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 extremely large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion'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 life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”
Timothy Greene
Timothy Greene

A passionate DIY enthusiast and home decor blogger sharing practical tips and creative inspirations for everyday projects.