Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring unharmed, 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 Response

Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”