Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Provocative ‘Kill’ Statements Towards Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face off
Jake Paul faces a major disadvantage against two-time heavyweight champion AJ.

The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer 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 YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest 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 bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

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

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”
Claire Evans
Claire Evans

Elara Vance is a seasoned travel writer and luxury lifestyle expert, sharing insights from global adventures and exclusive destinations.