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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul 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 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 physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand 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 stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

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

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”