🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is my profession, 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 crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”