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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero 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 bout many consider a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

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

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd pose before Joshua remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

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

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

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

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back 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.”