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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his position: “It's my job, 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

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

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

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

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 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 AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”