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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset 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 ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter said he has been “brought 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 boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

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

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”