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Anthony Joshua stood by his controversial comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a press event in Florida on midweek.

These statements were first made on the previous day when Joshua was questioned if he would show restraint against the social media star, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's fight against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked debate over the risk involved and the size difference between the two fighters.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion Tyson Fury branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme language.

But the 36-year-old fighter, defended his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

“I understand many people don't grasp 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 paramount, respectfully.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits the ring unharmed, 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

Paul, a huge underdog in the heavyweight contest as a natural lighter fighter, was equally incendiary in his response.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm prepared. 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 his opponent, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a glaring mismatched contest, with some arguing it should have been approved as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be fought over eight 3-minute stanzas using standard 10oz padded gloves, with a specified maximum weight for the former champion.

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

Despite the vulgar terminology used, the fighter said 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 carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

The event also had lighter moments, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded peacefully, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua remained calm and lightly touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Allegations

The peculiar aspect of this fight has led to rumors about its authenticity, including suggestions that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

“There are no clauses in the contract, Joshua can confirm it. We're going to war,” Jake Paul said.

The former champion, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

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

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

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

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest upset in the sport's history.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on his legacy, but the fighter said it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, shake it off,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a year or two. It is what it is. I'm a player in the sport.”