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

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “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. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

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

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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 take him seriously.

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

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”