Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative "Kill" Remarks Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.
These statements were originally stated on Tuesday 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 criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, explained his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”
He continued, “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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, 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 Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter 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 news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations
The peculiar nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”
Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.
It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”
