Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative ‘Kill’ Remarks Aimed at Paul
The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.
These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.
Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”
He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”
“You pray your adversary leaves the ring in good health, 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 Response
Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.
“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.
He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.
Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims
The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.
Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”
He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally 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 calibre but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.
“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”
A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”