Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative ‘Kill’ Remarks Aimed at Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
Jake Paul is set to fight a considerable disadvantage against former heavyweight champion AJ.

Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp 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 mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

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

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami'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 fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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 insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
Ashley Davis
Ashley Davis

A tech enthusiast and productivity coach who writes about optimizing workflows and embracing digital tools for better living.