🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe 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 wish your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

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

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

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

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show 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 more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”