Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
Jake Paul will meet a major challenge against two-time heavyweight champion AJ.

The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “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 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 mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray 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 purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to rescue” 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 boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual posture before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

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

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“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 Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”
Makayla Miller
Makayla Miller

A wellness coach and mindfulness practitioner with over a decade of experience in holistic health and personal development.