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The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on midweek.

His words were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe 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 wish 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 was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

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

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

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

The news conference also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion remained composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “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 exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back 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.”