Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Comments Aimed at Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.
But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything 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 was not personal.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his reply.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the extreme language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a odd pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”
Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”
