Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.
These statements 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”.
The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”
Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.
But Joshua, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure 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 raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary leaves the ring in good health, 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 Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his retort.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.
He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought 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 bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.
The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed his chain.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”
He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Largest Shock in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”
