Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Comments Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

“You wish your adversary exits 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.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre pose before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to questions 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,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”