Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer is set to fight a major disadvantage against former heavyweight champion AJ.

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated 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 fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure 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 raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. 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 squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called 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 the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

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

A data analyst and renewable energy enthusiast who writes about sustainable gaming practices and environmental strategies.