Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Aimed at Jake Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.
But Joshua, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish your opponent 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 Retort
Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.
Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.
Biggest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”
A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.
It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.
“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”