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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were first made on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology 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 pray your adversary leaves 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 Fiery Response

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, Joshua suggested 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 news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”