Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative "Kill" Statements Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces a major disadvantage against two-time heavyweight champion AJ.

The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend 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 important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps 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 exits the ring in good health, 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 huge outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his retort.

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

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before the champion remained composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering 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,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”
Kimberly Davis
Kimberly Davis

A passionate writer and researcher with a knack for uncovering hidden narratives and sharing compelling perspectives on life and culture.