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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua 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 YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, 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

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his retort.

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

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion remained composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”