Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Provocative "Kill" Remarks Aimed at Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
The YouTuber-turned-boxer is set to fight a major disadvantage against two-time world titleholder Anthony Joshua.

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

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

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

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

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

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. 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 squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. 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 significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”
Marissa Massey
Marissa Massey

A tech journalist and futurist with a passion for exploring how emerging technologies shape society and daily life.