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The British heavyweight doubled down on his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were initially uttered on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn concern over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, 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 - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. 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 ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many see as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

He Claims He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter said he has been “called 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 boxing on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with the underdog adopting a bizarre pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

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

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a massive 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,” he said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest loss of his life.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”