Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Comments Towards Jake Paul

The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits 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

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to 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 added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back 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 player in the sport.”