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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

His words were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, 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. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. 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 dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits 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 Response

Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter claimed 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 bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

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

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

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

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”