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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

These statements were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend 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, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd pose before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions 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.

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”