Anthony Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Statements Directed at Paul

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, 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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray 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 not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” 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 fight,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

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

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.

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

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”