Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.
His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't comprehend 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 important, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish 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 Response
Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his response.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, 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 ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, sporting 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 fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Biggest Shock in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”
A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
