Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Remarks Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned 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 safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that 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 boxers. 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. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” 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 boxing on my back in this bout,” 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 face-off passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”