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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

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

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

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

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

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

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

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

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

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