🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. 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. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter 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 the sport 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 peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

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

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre 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 biggest loss of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”