🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. 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 ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring unharmed, 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 Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

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

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

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously 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 high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”