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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

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

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, 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 - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary leaves 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “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 Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

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

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”