🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

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

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “It's my job, 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. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter said he has been “brought 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 carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”