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The British heavyweight repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

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

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary 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 huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of 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 bout,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to 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 interest was the purse.”

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

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”