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

These statements were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

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

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

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a unusual pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

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 fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

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