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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on Wednesday.

His words were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

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

The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”