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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were first made on Tuesday 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 debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

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

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

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, 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 insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought 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 commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”