Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.
His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”
He stated, “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 tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary 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.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”
He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
