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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

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

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, defended his position: “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 - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other boxers 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

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 contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt 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 moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before Joshua remained calm and playfully touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”