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

The remarks were first made on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned 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 concern over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

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

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “This is my profession, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

He stated, “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 tame. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You wish 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 was purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was equally combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “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, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The professional contest will be contested over eight 3-minute rounds using regular 10oz gloves, with a specified weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” The Sport

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

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

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with Joshua smiling as Paul sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with the underdog striking a bizarre posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The unusual aspect of this bout has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can attest to it. We're going to battle,” Paul insisted.

Joshua, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the money.”

Paul has claimed on his platforms that the total purse will be exceptionally high.

Biggest 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 calibre but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

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

“I'd come back again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”