Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”
Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
