Joshua Reaffirms on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
Jake Paul will meet a major challenge against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua.

The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned 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 debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't understand 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 crucial, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring in good health, 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 Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his response.

“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 over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, 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 war,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

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

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
Brian Rivera
Brian Rivera

A seasoned journalist and cultural commentator with over a decade of experience covering UK affairs, passionate about uncovering unique stories.