Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Towards Paul

Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made on the previous day when Joshua 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 drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary 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.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” 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 fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

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

“I'd 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 competitor in the sport.”