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The British heavyweight repeated his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. 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. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his response.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” the sport of 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 the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul said.

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

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

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

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

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”