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

The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

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

“You pray 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

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

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

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

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

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

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