🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “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 important, respectfully.”

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

“You hope 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 was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter claimed 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 bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

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

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

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

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

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

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I would come back 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 sport.”