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The British heavyweight stood by his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. 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 unharmed, 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 Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.

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

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had lighter exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

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

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

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

Paul 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 not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his rival 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 win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”