Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative ‘Kill’ Remarks Towards Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.
Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky 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 knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, 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 no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing 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 the champion remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims
The peculiar nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”
Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”
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 record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
