Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Controversial ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.
These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You pray 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 purely professional.”
Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he 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 consider a glaring mismatch, 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 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.
Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims
The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”
Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”
