Joshua Reaffirms on Provocative "Kill" Comments Directed at Jake Paul

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary 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 Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”