Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Remarks Towards Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“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 crucial, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.
Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”
He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”