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Boxer's Mindset

"I will injure his face and hurt his body. I'm here to prove I'm superior," Joshua, 35, declared.

"I'll stamp all over him. That's the boxer's mindset.

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

Civil Exchange

In spite of these statements, a relaxed Joshua and internet personality Paul - usually known for his theatrics - were respectful and maintained decorum with each other.

Jake Paul instead attacked ex Joshua rival the Cameroonian fighter and called him "ridiculous" after Ngannou rejected a match opportunity.

Targeting Fury

Joshua, meanwhile, criticized British opponent Fury - and refused a million-pound wager 'Tyson Fury' states he will put on a victory for Paul.

"[Paul] is better than Tyson Fury - he's present here," the boxer commented.

"I give him credit for that."

Serious Fighter

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

"Jake is a credible opponent," he stated.

Paul's History

Paul - who originally gained popularity on the television network - has primarily boxed mixed martial artists or past-their-prime fighters since entering professional boxing.

He lost to Briton Fury in last year.

Commercial Attraction

Still, the inexperienced fighter continues to be one of boxing's largest commercial attractions, consistently making massive earnings.

Forecast and Belief

The 28-year-old predicted a KO victory in rounds four or five and stated he would prevent the highly-expected Joshua–Fury fight, which is allegedly being planned for 2026.

"The next fight will be myself against Tyson Fury in the coming year," Paul stated.

Physical Disparity

As both boxers met for the usual stare-down, with their size difference on show, it emphasized just how improbable this complete situation is - and how astonishing it is that the bout is really happening.