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

The remarks were initially uttered on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King called Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I'm sure many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

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

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his retort.

“This is a modern day combat sport,” Paul said. “I'm prepared. I want his strongest punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's arena in a fight many consider a major mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute rounds using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

Joshua Claims He Was “Called In to Rescue” Boxing

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed he has been “brought in to save” 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 the sport on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The face-off passed without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre pose before the champion stayed calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the purse.”

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

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

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A victory for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking surprise in the boxing's history.

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

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”