Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory "Kill" Statements Aimed at Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.
But Joshua, defended his position: “This is what I do, 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary exits the ring unharmed, 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 Fiery Retort
Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his retort.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of 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 bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”
Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”