I will stamp all over 'credible combatant' Paul - Anthony Joshua
Anthony Joshua prepares to battle the American YouTuber in an eight-bout contest which will be streamed in real-time on Netflix.
British boxer Joshua declared he will "stamp all over" Jake Paul and "break" the American as the combatants met personally to build hype for the upcoming boxing match.
Former twice world heavyweight champion Joshua faces YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul - in what is, by the numbers, a massive disparity - at Miami Kaseya Center on December 19th.
Boxer's Mindset
"I plan to injure his face and damage his physique. I aim to demonstrate my superiority," Joshua, 35 years old, stated.
"I'll stamp all over him. That's a fighter's mentality.
"I will really want to injure him. That's my intention."
Respectful Exchange
Despite those words, a composed Anthony Joshua and social media star Paul - normally famous for his showmanship - were respectful and maintained decorum with each other.
Jake Paul instead targeted ex Joshua rival Francis Ngannou and described him as "ridiculous" after Ngannou rejected a bout proposal.
Targeting Fury
Anthony Joshua, meanwhile, criticized British opponent Fury - and declined a large bet 'Tyson Fury' states he will put on a Paul win.
"Jake Paul outshines Fury - he's actually sitting here," the boxer said.
"I respect him for that."
Legitimate Fighter
Despite stating he plans to punish Paul, Joshua chose not to speak negatively about his rival's pugilistic talent.
"Jake Paul is a credible opponent," he stated.
Jake Paul's History
Jake Paul - who first rose to fame on the Disney Channel - has primarily fought mixed martial artists or faded names since becoming pro.
He lost to British fighter Fury in 2023.
Commercial Success
However, the relative newcomer is still one of the sport's largest commercial attractions, regularly earning substantial earnings.
Forecast and Confidence
The 28 year old anticipated a KO victory in the fourth or fifth round and claimed he would prevent the highly-expected Joshua–Fury fight, which is allegedly being planned for 2026.
"It will be me versus Tyson Fury next year," Jake Paul said.
Size Difference
As Joshua and Paul engaged in the customary stare-down, with their height and weight contrast clearly visible, it drove home just how improbable this whole event is - and how astonishing it is that the match is really proceeding.