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

His words were originally stated on Tuesday 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 internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He stated, “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 reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology 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 comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

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

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul 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 upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”