Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Aimed at Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.
His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary exits 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.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. 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 Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd posture before the champion stayed calm and lightly touched his chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”