Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Comments Towards Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying 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 physical disparity between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, 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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his response.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “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 Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “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 large.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.
“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 player in the game.”
