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Anthony Joshua repeated his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

These statements were originally stated 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 fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, defended his position: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality 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 perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center 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 eight three-minute rounds using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained calm and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

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

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

He has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's skill level but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”