Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology 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 pray your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero 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 mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop 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 lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

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

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

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

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”