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

His words were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

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

He continued, “That's just the mindset 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 squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits 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 Fiery Response

Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

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

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”