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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”