Eddie Hearn defends Anthony Joshua after his ‘kill’ remark for Jake Paul sparks backlash from Tyson Fury

Eddie Hearn has publicly defended Anthony Joshua following backlash over the heavyweight’s controversial remarks ahead of his fight with Jake Paul. Joshua faces the YouTuber-turned-boxer on Friday night in Miami in a professionally sanctioned bout that has already raised serious safety concerns. The build-up has been intense, with emotions running high on all sides.

The controversy erupted after Joshua stated, “If I can kill you, I will kill you.” The former two-time world champion later clarified that he did not mean the comment literally. He explained that such language reflects the brutal mindset fighters adopt before stepping into the ring. Despite this, the statement drew criticism from several figures, including Tyson Fury.

Eddie Hearn hits back at critics and explains Anthony Joshua’s mindset

Anthony Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn was quick to respond to the criticism and strongly defended his fighter. Speaking to SunSport, Hearn said, “Boxing is kill or be killed. You don’t wish that on your opponent but that’s the mentality you have to go in the ring with ‘you or them’.”

Hearn argued that Joshua cannot win public approval regardless of what he says.

“You can’t win because if Anthony Joshua’s not this barbaric character, everyone goes, ‘Oh, he’s boring, he doesn’t really say a lot.’ Then he says something like that and everyone goes, ‘Ooh, disgusting. I can’t believe.’ Look we’re putting these guys in the ring to go and knock each other out. And he’s going into the ring with bad intentions tomorrow night. I fear for Jake a lot. And I hope he comes out OK”, he added.

Tyson Fury was among those who criticised Joshua’s words, calling him a “classless loser”. The two heavyweights are expected to finally meet in the ring next September. Hearn believes Fury’s comments were no surprise.

He said, “Listen, whenever AJ’s in a big fight, Tyson Fury comes out to play. And obviously the timing’s right because hopefully those guys are gonna fight each other. AJ’s reputation is impeccable. He would love to knock Tyson Fury out as well. And I think if we handle business well on Friday night, you’ll definitely see that in 2026.”

Joshua, is fighting for the first time since his knockout loss to Daniel Dubois in September 2024. Fury, who retired earlier this year continues to hint at a comeback. Joshua weighed 243.4lb, while Paul was two stone lighter at 216.6lb.

Also Read: “If I can kill you, I will kill you” - Anthony Joshua issues brutal warning to Jake Paul ahead of Netflix showdown

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