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Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

His words were first made on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout 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”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

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

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

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. 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 squared circle, 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 knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive 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 smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

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