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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, defended his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

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

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

Paul's Incendiary Retort

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

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

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

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to rescue” 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 concluded.

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

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

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

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A win for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”