Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Controversial "Kill" Remarks Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces a considerable challenge against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called 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 the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

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

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
Danielle Shelton
Danielle Shelton

Elena Carter is a seasoned journalist with a passion for uncovering the stories that matter most.