Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Remarks Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “It's my job, 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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your opponent 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 was purely professional.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the extreme language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”
He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
