🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words 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”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, explained his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits the ring in good health, 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 Response

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

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

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called 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 fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

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

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

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

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”