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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned 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 safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy 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 mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent 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.”

Paul's Fiery Response

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

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

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

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”