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Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

The remarks were first made on the previous day when Joshua was asked if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Former titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

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 reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

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

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

Joshua will face his opponent, 28, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Rescue” Boxing

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

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul show and I comprehend it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before Joshua remained composed and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

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

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Shock in Sport's History?

Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing 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,” he commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

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

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

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”