Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Comments Towards Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
His words were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
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 understand 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 added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. 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 wish your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Paul's Fiery Response
Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport
Despite the graphic language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to 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 news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”
Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”
A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”