The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.
The remarks were first made on the previous day 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 fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.
Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”
Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.
But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”
He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”
“You hope your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”
Paul's Incendiary Retort
Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.
The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.
Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport
Despite the graphic language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of 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 concluded.
The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.
The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed his chain.
Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims
The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, 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, amassing a huge social media following.
He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.
“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”
A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.
It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.
“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”
