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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury called Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

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

“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 paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other boxers 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 exits the ring unharmed, 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

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” 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 fight,” he concluded.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained calm and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's annals.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”