🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology 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 squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

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