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

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, defended his stance: “This is my profession, 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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show 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 lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation 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 expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.

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

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”