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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. Whatever happens, 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 warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a bout many see as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest loss of his career.”

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”