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

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when Joshua was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

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

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Anything can happen.”

“You pray 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.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally incendiary in his reply.

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

The official fight will be contested over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

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

Despite the vulgar language used, the fighter claimed he has been “called in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed calm and playfully grabbed his chain.

Paul & Joshua Deny Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

The former champion, wearing a expensive necklace, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally large.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his rival would take him seriously.

“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 arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”