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Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

These statements 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 bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish 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 wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

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

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

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

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

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

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”