🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight repeated his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps 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 wish your adversary leaves 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

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

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”