🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, explained his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know 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 perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope 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 wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his retort.

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

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

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

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