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Fighter's Mindset

"I plan to damage his features and hurt his body. I'm here to prove I'm the better fighter," Joshua, 35, said.

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

"I intend to genuinely try to injure him. That's what I want to do."

Civil Exchange

Despite those words, a calm Joshua and social media star Jake Paul - typically recognized for his theatrics - exchanged pleasantries and kept it respectful with each other.

Jake Paul instead criticized former Joshua opponent Francis Ngannou and described him as "ridiculous" after the Cameroonian rejected a match opportunity.

Taking Aim at Fury

Joshua, meanwhile, criticized British rival Fury - and rejected a large bet 'The Gypsy King' says he will place on a victory for Paul.

"Jake Paul is better than Tyson Fury - he's present here," Joshua said.

"I respect him for that."

Serious Opponent

In spite of stating he plans to punish Paul, Joshua refused to comment unfavorably about his opponent's fighting skills.

"Jake Paul is a serious fighter," he stated.

Paul's Background

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

He lost to British fighter Fury in 2023.

Financial Success

Nevertheless, the inexperienced fighter is still one of the sport's biggest financial successes, regularly earning substantial paydays.

Prediction and Confidence

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

"It will be my match with Fury next year," Paul stated.

Size Disparity

As Joshua and Paul engaged in the usual face-off, with their height and weight contrast on show, it emphasized just how improbable this complete situation is - and how remarkable it is that the fight is truly going ahead.