Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.
His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “This is what I do, 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 raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure 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 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 was purely professional.”
Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his retort.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched his chain.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims
The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”
Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.
“I would return 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 game.”