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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back 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 drawn criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.

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

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

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

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”