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

The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

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

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no 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 bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

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

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

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

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

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

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”