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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, justified his position: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't understand 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 paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. 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 opponent 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.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

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

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to rescue” boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

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

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”