Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Statements Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer will meet a major disadvantage against former world titleholder AJ.

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned 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 debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

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

“You hope your adversary exits 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 Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to speculation 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 battle,” Paul insisted.

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

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

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”
Christopher Webster
Christopher Webster

A tech journalist and gaming enthusiast with over a decade of experience covering emerging technologies and digital culture.