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

These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He continued, “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 tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish 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

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of 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 the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion remained composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

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

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

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

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

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