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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were originally stated 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”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

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

“You hope your adversary exits 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.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

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

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”