Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Aimed at Jake Paul

The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend 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 continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope 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 was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”