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The British heavyweight stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday 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 contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

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

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

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

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

The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 fight,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return 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.”