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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Florida on midweek.

His words were first made on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn concern over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I'm unsure if other fighters 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 pray your opponent exits the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his strongest 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 bout many consider a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified weight limit for Joshua.

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

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

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

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off passed without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before Joshua stayed calm and lightly touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the money.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be extremely large.

Largest Upset 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 pedigree but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the greatest loss of his career.”

A victory for Paul would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's annals.

It would certainly leave an permanent stain on his legacy, but the athlete said it would not mean retirement.

“I would come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”