Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory "Kill" Statements Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.
But Joshua, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary leaves the ring safely, 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 considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his retort.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims 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,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”
Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Biggest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.
“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
