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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained 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 paramount, respectfully.”

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

“You pray your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he 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, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” 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 lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”