Joshua Reaffirms on Controversial "Kill" Statements Aimed at Paul

The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered 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”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his reply.

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

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider 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 rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of 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 Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

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

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

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

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”