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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, explained his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. 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.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center 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 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

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

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”