Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Statements Directed at Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.
His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 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 official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims
The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”
Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
