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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

These statements were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is what I do, 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 love what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset 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 risky thing. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a massive underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less combative in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he declared. “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 his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over eight three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Rescue” The Sport

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

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

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, 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 extremely high.

Largest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest defeat of his career.”

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

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”