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

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

“You pray 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 Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.

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

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

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

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

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”