Joshua Reiterates on Inflammatory "Kill" Remarks Aimed at Jake Paul

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

His words 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 bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

“You pray your adversary exits 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

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

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

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