Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.
The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.
Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.
Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”
Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.
But Joshua, defended his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.
“I understand 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, with all due respect.”
He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”
“You wish your opponent 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 Fiery Response
Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.
“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”
AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.
The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.
Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing
Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.
“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show 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 Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.
The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.
Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations
The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.
“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.
Joshua, sporting a valuable 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 exceptionally large.
Largest Upset in Sport's History?
Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.
He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.
“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”
A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.
It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.
“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”
