Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial ‘Kill’ Remarks Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying 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 physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure 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 dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray 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 wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “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.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and lightly touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

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

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”