Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Aimed at Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.
His words were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You pray your opponent exits 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 Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”
He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.
He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”