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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish 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 Response

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “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.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame 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 a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”