🔗 Share this article

Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.

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

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers 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. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves 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 not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. 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 arena in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend 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 exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”