Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, explained 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. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the graphic language used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims
The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”
He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”