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

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua 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 internet personality turned fighter has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

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 understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many consider 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 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

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

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”