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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

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

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits the ring unharmed, 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 Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his response.

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

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

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

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

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”