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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding 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 competitors.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, explained his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure 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 held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

“You hope 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”