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

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. 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, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and lightly grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

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