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Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

These statements were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint 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 concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't understand 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 psychology 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 squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to questions 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,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”