Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Remarks Directed at Paul

The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

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

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers 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 dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested 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 news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his opponent 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 life.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”