Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory ‘Kill’ Remarks Aimed at Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer 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 safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps 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 wish your adversary 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.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

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

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

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

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop 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 Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a unusual posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”