🔗 Share this article

The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring unharmed, 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

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he 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, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, 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, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”