Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Statements Aimed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.
His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.
But Joshua, justified his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything 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.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed his chain.
Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”
He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
