🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd posture before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”