Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Remarks Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer faces a considerable disadvantage against former world titleholder Anthony Joshua.

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

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, justified 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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

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

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

Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “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 his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

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

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
John Elliott
John Elliott

A seasoned gaming analyst with over a decade of experience in casino strategy development and game mechanics.