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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp 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, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his retort.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon 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 moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

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

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”