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

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

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

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” 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 more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

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

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”