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Anthony Joshua stood by his much-discussed comments about being prepared to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Florida on midweek.

These statements were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was asked if he would show restraint against Paul, responding that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

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

Fury Labels Joshua a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder Tyson Fury labeled Anthony Joshua a “disgrace” for his extreme rhetoric.

But the 36-year-old fighter, justified his position: “This is what I do, 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 take pleasure in what I do. Whatever happens, happens - provided that my hand is raised, that's what's crucial, with all due respect.”

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

“You wish your opponent exits the ring unharmed, 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

Paul, a considerable outsider in the fight as a career lighter fighter, was equally fiery in his reply.

“This is a contemporary combat sport,” he said. “I'm prepared. I want his most powerful punches. I want there to be no excuses when it's all said and done. We should kill each other.”

AJ will face his opponent, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some suggesting it should have been sanctioned as an exhibition bout.

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

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

Despite the graphic terminology used, the fighter suggested he has been “brought in to rescue” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to halt the Jake Paul phenomenon and I comprehend it and that's why I have to carry the sport on my back in this bout,” he added.

The news conference also had lighter exchanges, with Joshua laughing as his rival sang a nursery rhyme to him.

The final staredown concluded peacefully, with the underdog striking a unusual posture before Joshua stayed composed and lightly grabbed his necklace.

Both Fighters Dismiss Scripted Allegations

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

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

Joshua, wearing a valuable chain, jokingly added, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the money.”

He has stated on social media that the total purse will be extremely large.

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

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

He has not faced anyone of the former champion's calibre but insisted that his rival would not underestimate him.

“It's a wise move on his part,” he said. “This could possibly be, and will be, the largest loss of his career.”

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

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

“I would come back again, shake it off,” he said. “I will be main eventing again in a year or two. That's life. I'm a competitor in the sport.”