Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.
These statements were first made 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”.
Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary exits the ring safely, 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 Response
Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “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 bout many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of 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 fight,” he concluded.
The event also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, 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,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”
He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
