Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't understand 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 paramount, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky 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 was purely professional.”
Paul's Fiery Response
Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 added.
The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched his chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”
Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”