Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative "Kill" Statements Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

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

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”