Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.
But Joshua, defended his position: “This is what I do, 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 - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe 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 pray your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”
Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his response.
“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.”
AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a unusual posture before the champion remained composed and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims
The unusual aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”
Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.
Largest Shock in Boxing History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre 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 greatest defeat of his career.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.
It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”
