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Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps 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 leaves 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 Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

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

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Sport's 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 maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

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