Joshua Doubles Down on Controversial "Kill" Statements Directed at Jake Paul

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

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

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

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he 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 surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”