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

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary leaves 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

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

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

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

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