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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks 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 show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology 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 squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

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

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul striking a unusual pose before Joshua remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual nature of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”