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Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Miami on Wednesday.

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

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his stance: “This is what I do, 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 love what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as warriors. I don't know 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 perilous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits the ring in good health, 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 Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally combative in his response.

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

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a fight many consider a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the extreme terminology used, the fighter said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion stayed calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Scripted Allegations

The peculiar nature of this fight has led to questions about its authenticity, including claims that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

The former champion, sporting a valuable chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

Paul has stated on social media that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a massive social media following.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's skill level but insisted that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A win for Paul would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an permanent mark on his record, but the athlete said it would not spell the end.

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the game.”