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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

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

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

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

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”