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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami 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 internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend 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 crucial, respectfully.”

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 ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

The event 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 adopting a bizarre pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

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

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“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 player in the sport.”