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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset 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 squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope 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 Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.

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

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”