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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended 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 - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits 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.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day combat 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.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

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

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

The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

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

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

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”