Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.
The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.
But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less combative in his retort.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.
He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched his necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”
He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”
