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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

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

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary 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 Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

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

Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

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