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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

His words were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

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

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

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

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” 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.”