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Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding 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 physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, 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 fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to 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 concluded.

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”