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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, 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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

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

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

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

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

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

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”