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Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “It's my job, 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 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 psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his response.

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

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

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought 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 carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

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

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”