🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked 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 attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand 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 stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called 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 bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before the champion remained composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

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

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”