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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified his position: “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 take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

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

“You hope 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 wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

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

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”