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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

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”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

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

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

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves 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 not personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature 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, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”