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The British heavyweight repeated his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated 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”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“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 held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope 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 wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature 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 confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”