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The British heavyweight stood by his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made 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”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, 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 - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe 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 knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul 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 Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims 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 said.

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”