Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Towards Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. 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 squared circle, 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 not personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport
Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted 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 largest defeat of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”