Anthony Joshua doesn't regret making controversial "kill" comments to Jake Paul

Joshua - who was branded a "classless loser" by Tyson Fury for the comments - said: "It's my job, we fight. We have a licence to kill.

"I'm sure many people don't understand it but this is what my job is. I just enjoy what I do.

"Whatever happens, happens - as long as my hand is raised, that's what's important, respectfully.

"That's just what the mentality we have to have as fighters. I don't know if other fighters think that way. Maybe they're a bit more tame.

"The way my mind works. When you're in the ring, it's a dangerous thing. Anything can happen.

"You hope your opponent 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."

Joshua also stressed that he has been tasked with saving boxing from the growing influence of Paul - who has won 12 of his 13 previous fights.

The British boxer said: "They want me to put an end to the Jake Paul show and I understand it and that's why I have to carry boxing on my back in this fight."

Joshua has suffered four defeats in the ring in recent years and explained that he has learnt how to handle setbacks better.

He told Daily Mail Sport: "When I think about defeat now, I just remember that Muhammad Ali lost, Mike Tyson lost, and they're still legends of the game, so if AJ loses, so what you know? I mean, it doesn't really bother me. I thought, just keep going."