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The British heavyweight stood by his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday 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 YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“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 added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters 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 dangerous thing. Anything 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 was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

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

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

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

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

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”