🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary exits the ring in good health, 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 Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

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

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

“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 perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

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

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