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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were initially uttered 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 bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

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

“I'm sure 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 added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

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

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

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

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”