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Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative remarks about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

His words were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme comments.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is my profession, 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 take pleasure in 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 mentality we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Perhaps they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a natural cruiserweight, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Florida's arena in a fight many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using regular 10oz padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

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

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous moments, with AJ smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The face-off passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre posture before the champion stayed composed and playfully grabbed his chain.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The surreal nature of this fight has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable 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 extremely large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, amassing a massive 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 said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A win 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 fighter stated it would not spell the end.

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