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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe 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 pray your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

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

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”