Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Statements Directed at Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.
These statements were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“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 - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope 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.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his retort.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”