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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked 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 YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, defended 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

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

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre posture before the champion remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”