Sports

Anthony Joshua labelled a 'money grabber' after storm over gay comments


Anthony Joshua has sparked outrage over comments he made when discussing Saudi Arabia’s human rights record towards homosexuality.

The British heavyweight travels to the country in December where he will look to reclaim his three world titles from Andy Ruiz Jr in an eagerly-awaited rematch.

But the decision to host the fight in a country where homosexuality is illegal immediately caused concern when it was announced last month.

Now Joshua has discussed Saudi’s shocking human rights record in an interview with the BBC but remained tight-lipped over whether it is the right decision to take this big-money fight amid the controversy.

Anthony Joshua recently participated in a press conference in Saudi Arabia

 

However it was his comments in which he spoke about the fact homosexuals can receive the death penalty that has angered fans.

Joshua said: “There are certain polices that are in place in the country and there are certain policies we just have to abide by, and I abide by the law and that’s just how it goes in certain places.

“If you cant come to the country, you can still watch it, you’re still open to support and I appreciate your support from every community.”

Fans immediately hit back with one writing: “How disgusting is this attitude. He should cancel the fight.”

Joshua speaking in London ahead of his rematch with Andy Ruiz Jr

 

Another also criticised him for taking the fight: “You’d be humbled if you were gay or a women over there. Money grabbing chief.”

In the wide-ranging interview with the BBC, Joshua also suggested he feels he is doing the right thing despite the criticism that has been aimed his way.

“I feel like in this situation I’m damned if I do and damned if I don’t, a certain thing I can’t win for,” he added.

“I feel like I stand in the middle and I feel like boxing is just trying to open up the barriers for people to travel and see.

The British heavyweight suffered a shock defeat by Ruiz in June

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“I feel like so many communities have been through a lot of stuff, even my own community, we’re still going through stuff.

“If I’m going to fight for one cause, I’m going to fight for every cause and right now the cause I’m fighting for is getting my belts back.

“I do want to put on that cape and be like the spokesman but I’ve got some big tasks ahead of me at the minute.

“I feel I’m still young, I’ve still got time – there will be a time where I maybe more involved in certain aspects where we stand up and try and make change.”





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