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

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

The upcoming contest against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has sparked criticism over safety concerns and the size difference between the two athletes.

Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Joshua a “disgrace” for his inflammatory comments.

But Joshua, justified his position: “It's my job, we fight. We have a license that permits extreme violence.

“I'm sure many people don't grasp it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

He added, “That's just the mindset we have to have as boxers. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more reserved. The way my mind works. When you're in the squared circle, it's a risky thing. Everything can happen.”

“You pray your opponent leaves the ring unharmed, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed aware you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Jake Paul's Fiery Retort

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

“This is a modern day gladiator sport,” Paul stated. “I'm prepared. I want his hardest punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all over. Let's kill each other.”

AJ will face Paul, in his twenties, at Miami's Kaseya Center in a bout many see as a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been approved as an non-professional fight.

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

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

Despite the extreme language used, Joshua claimed 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 the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The event also had lighter moments, with Joshua smiling as his rival sang ‘London Bridge Is Falling Down’ to him.

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd pose before the champion remained calm and playfully touched Paul's necklace.

Paul & Joshua Deny Scripted Claims

The peculiar aspect of this bout has led to speculation about its authenticity, including suggestions that he may be restricted from scoring a knockout.

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

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

Paul has stated on his platforms that the total purse will be extremely high.

Biggest Shock in Boxing History?

Jake Paul first made his name as an online prankster, amassing a huge online audience.

He has not faced anyone of Joshua's calibre but maintained that his opponent would not underestimate him.

“It's smart on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the greatest loss of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be arguably the biggest upset in the boxing's annals.

It would undoubtedly leave an indelible stain on his record, but the fighter stated it would not spell the end.

“I would return again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. That's life. I'm a player in the game.”