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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure 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 held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his retort.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before the champion remained calm and playfully touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”