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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”