🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

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

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is what I do, 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 love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything 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 was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” 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 concluded.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before the champion remained composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

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

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”