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

His words were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure 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 held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

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

“You pray your adversary exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought 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 boxing on my back in this fight,” he added.

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd pose before the champion stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Jake Paul insisted.

Joshua, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “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.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”