Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Controversial "Kill" Remarks Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
These statements were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish 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.”
Paul's Incendiary Retort
Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed his chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual nature 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 agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”
Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”