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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know 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 wish 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly 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 history.

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

“I'd return 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.”