I will overwhelm 'legitimate combatant' Paul - Anthony Joshua

Anthony Joshua and Jake Paul face-off

Anthony Joshua prepares to battle the American YouTuber in an eight-round contest which will be broadcast in real-time on Netflix.

Briton Anthony Joshua said he will "overwhelm entirely" Jake Paul and "defeat" the American as the combatants met personally to publicize next month's boxing match.

Ex two-time world boxing king Anthony Joshua meets social media star turned fighter Jake Paul - in what is, by the numbers, a huge disparity - at Miami Kaseya Center on 19 December.

Boxer's Mentality

"I'm going to injure his face and break his body up. I'm here to prove I'm superior," Joshua, 35 years old, said.

"I'll stamp all over him. That's a fighter's mentality.

"I will genuinely try to injure him. That's my goal."

Respectful Interaction

In spite of these statements, a composed Joshua and internet personality Jake Paul - usually recognized for his dramatics - were respectful and remained civil with each other.

Jake Paul rather attacked ex Joshua's opponent Francis Ngannou and labeled him "ridiculous" after Ngannou turned down a fight offer.

Taking Aim at Fury

Joshua, meanwhile, criticized British opponent Tyson Fury - and rejected a large bet 'Tyson Fury' says he will place on a Paul win.

"Jake Paul outshines Tyson Fury - he's actually sitting here," Joshua stated.

"I acknowledge that."

Serious Opponent

Despite stating he plans to damage his opponent, Joshua refused to speak negatively about his opponent's pugilistic talent.

"Jake Paul is a credible opponent," he said.

Paul's History

Paul - who initially became famous on the television network - has primarily boxed mixed martial artists or declining opponents since becoming pro.

He was defeated by British fighter Tommy Fury in last year.

Financial Success

Still, the inexperienced fighter continues to be one of the sport's largest commercial attractions, regularly earning substantial financial rewards.

Prediction and Confidence

The 28 year old anticipated a knockout win in rounds four or five and asserted he would derail the highly-expected match between Joshua and Fury, which is allegedly under discussion for two years from now.

"The next fight will be me versus Tyson Fury next year," Paul said.

Size Difference

As the two fighters participated in the traditional face-off, with their height and weight contrast evident, it highlighted just how unlikely this complete situation is - and how astonishing it is that the fight is truly happening.

Jennifer Mason
Jennifer Mason

A storyteller and freelance writer passionate about capturing the nuances of human experience through personal essays and reflective narratives.