Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Comments Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

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

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

“You pray your opponent 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 was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre 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 largest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”