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Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

These statements were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

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

But Joshua, defended his position: “This is my profession, 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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

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

“You hope your adversary exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his retort.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with the underdog adopting a unusual posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar 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, AJ can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

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

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

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

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”