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Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, defended his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

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

“You hope your adversary leaves 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 underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his reply.

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

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

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

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”