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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

His words were first made on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “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 just enjoy 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 fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show 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 lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”