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The British heavyweight repeated his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

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

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his retort.

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

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute stanzas using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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 calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”