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Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a press event in Miami on midweek.

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

The upcoming bout against the internet personality turned fighter has sparked concern over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Labels AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his stance: “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. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the psychology we have to have as warriors. I don't know if other fighters 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. Anything can happen.”

“You wish your adversary 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 purely professional.”

Jake Paul's Incendiary Retort

Jake Paul, a massive outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career lighter fighter, was no less combative in his response.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” Paul declared. “I'm ready. 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 his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a fight many see as a significant mismatch, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

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

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

Despite the extreme language used, the fighter suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

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

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

The face-off concluded without incident, with the underdog adopting a bizarre posture before Joshua remained calm and playfully grabbed Paul's necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to questions about its legitimacy, including suggestions that he may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my interest was the payment.”

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

Largest Shock in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's pedigree but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

“It's smart on his part,” Paul said. “This could potentially be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his life.”

A win for Paul would be arguably the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not mean retirement.

“I'd return again, move on,” he said. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a player in the sport.”