Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Towards Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his stance: “This is what I do, 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 paramount, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” 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 peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims
The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.
It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.
“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”