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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

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

“You wish your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”