Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative "Kill" Comments Towards Jake Paul
Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering 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, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, 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 fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent 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 wasn't personal.”
Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.
“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” boxing.
“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.
The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations
The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.
The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”
Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”
A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.
“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
