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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

These statements were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality 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 dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter said 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 carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree 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 biggest defeat of his career.”

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

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

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