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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”