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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

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

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope 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 purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

“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 Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

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