Anthony Joshua Doubles Down on Inflammatory "Kill" Comments Aimed at Paul

The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love 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'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous 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

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “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.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” 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 fight,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”