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

These statements were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Tyson Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

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

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's paramount, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mentality we have to have as boxers. I don't know if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves 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 outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a bout many regard as a major mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

“They want me to put an end to 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 Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

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

“There's nothing in the agreement, Joshua can attest to it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul insisted.

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

Paul has stated on social media that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's skill level but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

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

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would certainly leave an indelible mark on Joshua's record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

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