Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

His words were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, 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 crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits 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 Response

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“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, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”