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

The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

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 tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

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

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

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