Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Paul

The British heavyweight stood by his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

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

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”