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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

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

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his stance: “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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits 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 not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful 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 fight many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The event also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

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

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”