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Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed 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 the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against the social media star, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

Saturday's bout against the internet personality turned fighter has attracted criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Classless Loser”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury called Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory comments.

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

He continued, “That's just the mentality we have to have as fighters. I'm unsure if other boxers think that way. Maybe they're a bit more conservative. The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a perilous thing. Anything can happen.”

“You hope your opponent exits the ring in good health, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It was not personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Jake Paul, a considerable underdog in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his reply.

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

AJ will face his opponent, in his twenties, at Florida's Kaseya Center in a bout many consider a significant mismatched contest, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

The professional contest will be contested over eight three-minute stanzas using standard ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for Joshua.

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

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

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight,” he concluded.

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

The final staredown passed without incident, with Paul adopting a odd posture before Joshua stayed composed and playfully grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Pre-Arranged Claims

The surreal aspect of this fight has led to questions about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, wearing a expensive chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the contract that got my attention was the payment.”

He has claimed on social media that the fight earnings will be extremely high.

Biggest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an digital influencer, gathering a massive social media following.

He has never fought anyone of the former champion's pedigree but insisted that his opponent would not underestimate him.

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

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the most shocking upset in the boxing's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the fighter said it would not mean retirement.

“I would return again, move on,” he remarked. “I will be headlining again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a competitor in the sport.”