Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Towards Paul
Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.
The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But Joshua, justified his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure 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 paramount, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Everything 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 purely professional.”
Paul's Fiery Response
Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the extreme language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”
He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”
A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”