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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

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

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

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, justified his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

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

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted 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 loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”