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

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure 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 paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps 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 hope your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, 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 Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero 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 significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

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

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

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

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would return 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.”