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

These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked 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 internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “It's my job, 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary 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.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter claimed he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

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

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

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”