Joshua Reiterates on Provocative "Kill" Comments Towards Jake Paul

The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified 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 paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe 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 opponent leaves 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

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

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

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

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

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

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

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