Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative ‘Kill’ Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.
The remarks were first made on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “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 held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”
Jake Paul's Incendiary Response
Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched his chain.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations
The unusual nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.
Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”
He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre 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 biggest loss of his career.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”