Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Comments Aimed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.
Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary leaves 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 Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “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 bout many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport
Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before Joshua remained calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.
Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”
He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
