Anthony Joshua Reiterates on Controversial "Kill" Comments Directed at Jake Paul

Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated 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 concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to 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 AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”