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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

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

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, defended his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp 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 crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of 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 fight,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a bizarre pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”