🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

These statements were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “It's my job, 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 take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

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

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

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

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”