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Anthony Joshua stood by his provocative comments about wanting to “kill” Jake Paul during a media gathering in Miami on midweek.

His words were initially uttered 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”.

The upcoming bout against the YouTuber-turned-boxer has drawn debate over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two fighters.

Fury Labels Joshua a “Classless Loser”

Former titleholder The Gypsy King branded Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his inflammatory language.

But Joshua, justified 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 just enjoy what I do. The outcome, happens - provided that my hand is held high, that's what's crucial, respectfully.”

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

“You pray your adversary leaves the ring safely, but if they don't, you still have to go to bed knowing you just did your job. It wasn't personal.”

Paul's Incendiary Response

Paul, a considerable outsider in the heavyweight contest as a career cruiserweight, was no less fiery in his reply.

“This is a modern day combat 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. We should kill each other.”

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

The official fight will be contested over 8 3-minute rounds using regular ten-ounce gloves, with a stipulated maximum weight for the former champion.

Joshua Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the vulgar terminology used, Joshua said he has been “brought in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to stop the Jake Paul phenomenon 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 lighter exchanges, with AJ laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual posture before the champion remained composed and playfully touched his necklace.

Both Fighters Deny Pre-Arranged Claims

The unusual nature of this fight has led to speculation about its authenticity, including claims that he may be restricted from knocking Paul out.

“There's nothing in the contract, AJ can confirm it. We're going to battle,” Paul said.

The former champion, sporting a valuable necklace, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the contract that got my interest was the payment.”

He has stated on his platforms that the fight earnings will be exceptionally high.

Largest Upset in Sport's History?

Jake Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive social media following.

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

“It's a wise move on his part,” Paul commented. “This could potentially be, and will be, the largest defeat of his life.”

A win for the underdog would be perhaps the biggest surprise in the boxing's history.

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

“I'd come back again, move on,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a couple of years. It is what it is. I'm a player in the game.”