Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces a significant challenge against two-time heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, 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 fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less combative in his reply.

“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 over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight 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 8 three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to save” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature 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 contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
Jordan Flores
Jordan Flores

Elara Vance is a tech enthusiast and gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in digital entertainment and software development.