Joshua Reiterates on Controversial ‘Kill’ Comments Aimed at Paul

The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned 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 internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that 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 warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

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

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

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre 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 defeat of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

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

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”