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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

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

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, explained his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “called 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 carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”