Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Directed at Paul

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know 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 perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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 show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

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

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”