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

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is what I do, 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

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

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his reply.

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

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” 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 the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

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

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

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