Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.
But Joshua, justified his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't grasp 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 important, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary exits the ring in good health, 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 Response
Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his response.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims
The unusual nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”
He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
