Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Aimed at Paul

The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, 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 boxers. 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 ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Retort

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

“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 said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

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

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

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

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

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

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 contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”