Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Directed at Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, 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. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” 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 fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before the champion stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”