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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“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 held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure 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. Everything can happen.”

“You pray 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”