Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Statements Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces a significant disadvantage against former world titleholder AJ.

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

These statements were originally stated 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”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, defended his stance: “It's my job, 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 love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray 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 wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

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

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
Timothy Lloyd
Timothy Lloyd

A passionate nature photographer and storyteller who captures the serene beauty of forests and wildlife through her lens.