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Anthony Joshua repeated his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

The remarks were initially uttered on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is what I do, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as warriors. 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 risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Retort

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

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul stated. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, the fighter said he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul striking a odd pose before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

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

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

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

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”