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The British heavyweight stood by his much-discussed comments about wanting to “kill” his opponent during a news conference in Miami on midweek.

His words were originally stated on the previous day when the boxer was questioned if he would hold back against Paul, replying that “if I can kill you, I'll kill”.

The upcoming contest against the internet personality turned fighter has drawn criticism over the risk involved and the physical disparity between the two competitors.

Tyson Fury Calls AJ a “Disgrace”

Ex- titleholder The Gypsy King labeled Anthony Joshua a “classless loser” for his extreme comments.

But Joshua, justified his mindset: “This is my profession, 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 love what I do. The outcome, happens - as long as my hand is held high, that's what's paramount, with all due respect.”

He stated, “That's just the mentality 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. Anything can happen.”

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

Paul's Incendiary Retort

Paul, a huge outsider in the fight as a career cruiserweight, was equally fiery in his retort.

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

Joshua will face Paul, 28, at Miami's arena in a bout many regard as a glaring mismatch, with some arguing it should have been sanctioned as an non-professional fight.

The official fight will be fought over 8 three-minute stanzas using regular ten-ounce padded gloves, with a stipulated weight limit for the former champion.

He Claims He Was “Brought In to Save” Boxing

Despite the graphic language used, Joshua suggested he has been “called in to save” the sport of boxing.

“They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul phenomenon and I understand it and that's why I have to bear the sport on my back in this bout,” he concluded.

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

The face-off concluded without incident, with Paul adopting a unusual pose before Joshua stayed calm and lightly grabbed Paul's chain.

Paul & Joshua Dismiss Scripted Claims

The unusual nature of this bout has led to rumors about its legitimacy, including claims that Joshua may be prohibited from knocking Paul out.

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

Joshua, sporting a expensive chain, humorously remarked, “The only thing in the agreement that got my attention was the purse.”

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

Biggest Upset in Boxing History?

Paul first gained fame as an online prankster, gathering a massive online audience.

He has never fought anyone of Joshua's skill level but maintained that his opponent would take him seriously.

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

A victory for Paul would be arguably the most shocking upset in the sport's history.

It would certainly leave an permanent mark on Joshua's legacy, but the athlete stated it would not spell the end.

“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 player in the game.”