The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.
These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.
Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”
Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “It's my job, 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”
“You wish 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 wasn't personal.”
Jake Paul's Fiery Retort
Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.
“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”
Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.
The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.
He Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport
Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of 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 bout,” he concluded.
The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.
Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims
The unusual aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.
“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”
He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.
Biggest Shock in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.
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 greatest loss of his life.”
A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.
It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.
“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”
