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The British heavyweight stood by his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

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

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. 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 Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

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

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

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

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

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