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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I understand many people don't understand 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 important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your adversary leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many consider a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The face-off passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Claims

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, amassing a huge online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the game.”