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Fighter's Mentality

"I'm going to injure his face and hurt his body. My goal is to show I'm the better fighter," Joshua, 35 years old, declared.

"I will dominate him completely. That's a fighter's mentality.

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

Civil Exchange

Despite these statements, a calm Anthony Joshua and social media star Paul - typically known for his showmanship - exchanged pleasantries and remained civil with each other.

Paul rather attacked former Joshua's opponent Francis Ngannou and labeled him "a joke" after the Cameroonian rejected a fight offer.

Taking Aim at Tyson Fury

Joshua, in the meantime, took aim at British opponent Tyson Fury - and rejected a £1m bet 'Tyson Fury' states he will put on a victory for Paul.

"Jake Paul is better than Tyson Fury - he showed up," the boxer commented.

"I acknowledge that."

Legitimate Opponent

In spite of saying he intends to damage his opponent, Joshua refused to comment unfavorably about his rival's boxing ability.

"Jake is a legitimate boxer," he stated.

Jake Paul's Background

Paul - who initially became famous on the Disney Channel - has mostly fought MMA fighters or declining opponents since becoming pro.

He lost to British fighter Tommy Fury in 2023.

Commercial Attraction

Nevertheless, the novice remains one of the sport's largest commercial attractions, consistently making huge financial rewards.

Forecast and Belief

The 28 year old forecast a KO victory in round four or five and asserted he would prevent the much-anticipated Fury-Joshua bout, which is reportedly under discussion for two years from now.

"It will be myself against Tyson Fury next year," Paul stated.

Size Disparity

As the two fighters met for the usual stare-down, with their physical disparity clearly visible, it drove home just how unlikely this entire matchup is - and how amazing it is that the match is really proceeding.