🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “It's my job, 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary leaves 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

Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest 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, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

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

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”