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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday 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 fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“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 important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers 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 dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

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

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before the champion remained composed and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

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