Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

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

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”