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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

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

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure 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 not personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”