Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Towards Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. 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 ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.
Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport
Despite the graphic language used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.
The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims
The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
