Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Directed at Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces a significant challenge against former world titleholder AJ.

Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

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

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

“You hope your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “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 Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 fight,” he added.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion remained composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature 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 battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
Paul Torres
Paul Torres

Lena Weber is a political scientist and journalist with over a decade of experience in media analysis and investigative reporting.