Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer will meet a major disadvantage against two-time heavyweight champion AJ.

The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory 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 comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers 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 perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
Mr. Christopher Green
Mr. Christopher Green

A digital strategist with over a decade of experience in helping startups and SMEs scale through innovative online solutions.