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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many consider a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” The Sport

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua claimed he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge social media following.

He has not faced 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 biggest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”