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The British heavyweight doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

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

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

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

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. 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 Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the vulgar 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 show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained 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 loss of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

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