Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.
His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.
But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is what I do, 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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”
He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”
“You hope your opponent leaves 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 purely professional.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Response
Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his reply.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.
The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.
Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations
The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.
The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”
He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”
A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”
