Joshua Reiterates on Controversial "Kill" Remarks Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.
His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't comprehend 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 important, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims
The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”
Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.
Largest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.
He has not faced 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,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”