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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated 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 safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, 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 fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

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

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

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” 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 moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”