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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments 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 asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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

“You pray your opponent exits the ring unharmed, 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

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

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

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”