🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. 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 wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest 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 Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

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

Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

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

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

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

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”