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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

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Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “It's my job, 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 - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits the ring in good health, 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 Retort

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

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

“They want me to stop 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 exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed his chain.

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The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

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

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