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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

His words were originally stated on the previous day 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 bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

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

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters 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 hope your adversary exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

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

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

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

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

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

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 greatest defeat of his life.”

A win 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 fighter said it would not mean retirement.

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