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The British heavyweight repeated his provocative comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, justified his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the psychology we have to have as fighters. I don't know 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 dangerous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope 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.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “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 Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a unusual pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained 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 largest defeat of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”