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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned 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 internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

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

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

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained 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 greatest defeat of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would return 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.”