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Anthony Joshua doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, explained his mindset: “This is my profession, 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. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his retort.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero 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 regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon 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 lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”