Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.
These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, 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 Retort
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the extreme language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched his chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations
The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to 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 interest was the money.”
He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
