Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.
The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
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 grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mentality 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 ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his retort.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”
Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.
Biggest Shock in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”