🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “This is what I do, 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. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe 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 opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”