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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

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

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

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

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”