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The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements 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 contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

“You hope your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

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

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

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