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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned 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 YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

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

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

“You wish your opponent 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

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

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show 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 lighter moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual 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 contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”