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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered 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 fight against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

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

“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 raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, 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 knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

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

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua 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 carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

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

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

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

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

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

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”