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Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua 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 sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

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

“You pray your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, 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 Fiery Retort

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

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. 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 his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

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

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