Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Comments Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

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

“You wish your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

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

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

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”