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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial remarks about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a news conference in Florida on Wednesday.

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was asked if he would hold back against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn debate over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two athletes.

Fury Calls Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

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

“I understand many people don't comprehend it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

He continued, “That's just the mindset we have to have as fighters. 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 dangerous thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring unharmed, 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 outsider in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally combative in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm ready. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be zero excuses when it's all over. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many see as a significant mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for Joshua.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to rescue” boxing.

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

The event also had more humorous moments, with AJ laughing as Paul sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown passed peacefully, with Paul striking a bizarre pose before the champion remained composed and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its legitimacy, including suggestions that Joshua may be prohibited from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, wearing a valuable necklace, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

He has claimed on social media that the total purse will be extremely high.

Largest Shock in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.

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

“It's smart on his part,” he commented. “This could possibly be, and will be, the biggest defeat of his career.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest surprise in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an indelible stain on Joshua's record, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I'd come back again, move on,” he remarked. “I'll be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”