🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits 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

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

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

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

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

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

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

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”