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The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on the previous day 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”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “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. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

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

“You hope your adversary 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

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

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

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

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter suggested 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 understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

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

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge social media following.

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

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

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”