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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against Paul, responding 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 athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his mindset: “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 love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

“You hope your opponent exits the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest 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 Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” The Sport

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

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

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

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The peculiar nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a valuable chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

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

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

A victory for the underdog would be arguably the most shocking surprise in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”