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The British heavyweight stood by 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 hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, defended his stance: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “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 high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”