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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “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 Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” 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 fight,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”