Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Towards Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.
These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday 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 drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.
But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, 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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope 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 Fiery Retort
Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many consider a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” 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 passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Biggest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”