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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

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

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. 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 ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called 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 boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

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

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”