Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative "Kill" Remarks Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.
His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, justified his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent 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 Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a unusual posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims
The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.
Biggest Shock in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
