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Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure 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. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary leaves the ring safely, 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

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend 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 moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

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

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained 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 loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”