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The British heavyweight repeated his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned 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 attracted debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King labeled Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish your opponent exits the ring safely, 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 natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his reply.

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

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a major mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and playfully touched his chain.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

Joshua, sporting a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge 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 smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

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

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent stain on Joshua's record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”