🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't understand 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 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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's 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 approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

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

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

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

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, 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 battle,” Jake Paul said.

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

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

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

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”