As the clock ticks down to the long-awaited boxing match between Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua set for Friday night, emotions ran high during their face-off at Thursday’s weigh-in.
Weigh-ins are a standard procedure before any professional boxing match to ensure both fighters are in the same weight class, allowing for a fair and safe fight. However, these weigh-ins often turn into a psychological battleground, providing fighters one last chance to rattle their opponent before the bout.
During Thursday’s weigh-in, this was evident as Joshua and Paul went head-to-head, exchanging heated words ahead of their highly anticipated match, which will be available for streaming on Netflix.
While standing face to face, there was a brief moment of physical tension, culminating in Joshua making a throat-slashing gesture.
During the weigh-in, the two fighters exchanged words, but what was said could not be captured by the microphone. However, subsequent interviews shed some light on the exchange, indicating it was not entirely cordial.
Anthony Joshua was asked about the exchange and suggested that there was nothing inappropriate about it.
He stated, “There’s a mutual respect there, we’re just two fighters getting in the ring, but ultimately I have to be victorious. That’s all I’m focused on. The games are done. It’s time to lock in.”
When pressed about his comments during the face-off, Joshua responded, “Nothing. Don’t touch me. Nothing else. Nothing crazy. You know my character. I’m not going to give you any antics here. You know in the ring, you know what I’ve come to do.
“I outclass this kid. I’m a serious fighter. That’s the difference. You’re going to get f*****d up.”
As the interview continued, Paul approached Joshua to voice his perspective, mocking Joshua about his ‘chicken legs’ in front of a lively audience.
“Look at them chicken legs,” Paul laughed. “I said I smell fear. I see something in his eyes I truly do. The pressure’s on him. I’m fighting free. I’ve already won and this is a lose-lose situation for him.”
After sharing his thoughts, Paul returned to his pre-fight preparations, while Joshua grabbed the mic again to issue a stern warning, referencing Eddie Hearn, who was instrumental in launching Paul’s boxing career.
Joshua announced, “This man right here, is who started Jake’s pro career. He helped Jake have his pro debut. And he’s brought me in to end Jake Paul’s boxing career.”
The outcome of this showdown will soon be revealed, with the fight set to stream live on Netflix this Friday at 5pm PT and 8pm ET.