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Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

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

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

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

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

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

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

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “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 Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to stop 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 news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

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

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

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

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