Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, justified his position: “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 - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish 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 not personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“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 said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, 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 eight 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called 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 bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”