Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Directed at Paul
Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But Joshua, justified his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.
“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the mindset 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 squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”
Paul's Incendiary Response
Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport
Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed his chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations
The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”
Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.
Biggest Upset in Boxing History?
Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”
A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
