🔗 Share this article

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

These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. 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 aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “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.”

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

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested 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 carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

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

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul 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 digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

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

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

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”