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Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. 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 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. 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 his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre 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 largest loss of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”