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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained 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 raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

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

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”