🔗 Share this article

Boxer's Mindset

"I plan to injure his face and damage his physique. I'm here to prove my superiority," Joshua, 35 years old, declared.

"I plan to overwhelm him. That's a fighter's mentality.

"I intend to genuinely try to cause him pain. That's my goal."

Civil Exchange

In spite of those words, a composed Joshua and internet personality Jake Paul - normally known for his showmanship - shared friendly words and kept it respectful with each other.

Paul instead criticized ex Joshua's rival Francis Ngannou and labeled him "a joke" after the Cameroonian rejected a fight offer.

Taking Aim at Fury

Anthony Joshua, in the meantime, targeted British rival Fury - and refused a million-pound wager 'Tyson Fury' says he will place on a Paul victory.

"Jake Paul is better than Fury - he's actually sitting here," the boxer commented.

"I give him credit for that."

Serious Opponent

Despite declaring he will punish Paul, Anthony Joshua declined to speak negatively about his opponent's boxing ability.

"Jake is a credible opponent," he said.

Paul's Background

Paul - who first rose to fame on the Disney Channel - has mostly boxed mixed martial artists or declining opponents since entering professional boxing.

He lost to Briton Fury in last year.

Financial Attraction

Nevertheless, the relative newcomer continues to be one of the sport's greatest commercial attractions, regularly earning substantial paydays.

Prediction and Confidence

The 28-year-old forecast a stoppage in round four or five and stated he would prevent the much-anticipated Fury-Joshua bout, which is apparently in the works for 2026.

"It's going to be myself against Tyson Fury next year," Paul stated.

Physical Disparity

As the two fighters participated in the traditional stare-down, with their size difference on show, it drove home just how surprising this whole event is - and how remarkable it is that the match is actually proceeding.