Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Comments Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“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 raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”