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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a media gathering in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated 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 drawn concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his mindset: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

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

He stated, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other fighters 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 perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a massive underdog in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm ready. 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.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a fight many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-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 language used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a odd posture before Joshua remained composed and lightly touched Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There are no clauses in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought 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,” Paul commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be headlining again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”