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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

These statements were first made on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, 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 conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

Joshua Says He Was “Called In to Rescue” 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 phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this fight,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a huge social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”