Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial ‘Kill’ Statements Towards Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his response.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”
Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.
Biggest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
