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

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

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, 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 Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand 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 ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”