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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps 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 opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

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

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

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

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”