Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

His words were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary 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.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.

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

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

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

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”