Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Remarks Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.
But Joshua, explained his position: “It's my job, 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 - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Paul's Incendiary Retort
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”
He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.
Biggest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”
