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The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves 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 Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and lightly touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”