Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.
These statements were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You pray your opponent exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. 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, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”
He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“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 boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”