🔗 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.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

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

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

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre 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 largest loss of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”