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Anthony Joshua repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

These statements were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “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 take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

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 reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope 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 Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his response.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua suggested 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 carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat 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 mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”