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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Tyson Fury Calls Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

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

“I understand many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

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

“You hope 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 purely professional.”

Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “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.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many regard as a major mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to stop 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 news conference also had lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a odd posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully touched his chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to questions about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the agreement, AJ can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

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

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a huge social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his record, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

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