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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

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

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to speculation 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,” Paul insisted.

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

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”