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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 midweek.

His words were originally stated 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 contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe 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 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 was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.

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

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, 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,” Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“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.”