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

The remarks were originally stated on Tuesday when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has attracted criticism over safety concerns and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Former world heavyweight champion The Gypsy King branded Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But Joshua, explained his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's important, with all due respect.”

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

“You wish 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 Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the fight as a natural lighter fighter, was no less incendiary in his reply.

“This is a contemporary gladiator sport,” he declared. “I'm ready. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. Let's kill each other.”

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

The official fight will be fought over 8 3-minute rounds using standard 10oz gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

He Says He Was “Called In to Save” Boxing

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

“They want me to halt 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 concluded.

The news conference also had more humorous exchanges, with AJ smiling as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded without incident, with Paul striking a odd posture before the champion remained composed and playfully grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Allegations

The unusual aspect of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an digital influencer, gathering a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his rival 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 the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the sport's annals.

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

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