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The British heavyweight doubled down on his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp 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 important, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure 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. Everything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

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

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt 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 event also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

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

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”