Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Directed at Jake Paul

The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

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

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” 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 understand 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 paramount, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky 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 not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing 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 skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”