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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

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

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

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

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

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

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre pose before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims 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 insisted.

The former champion, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete said 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 sport.”