Boxer AJ in Ronaldo rape row
FURY AS CHAMP ‘TRIVIALISES’ FOOTBALLER SEX ABUSE CLAIM
BOXING champ Anthony Joshua has been slammed for praising Cristiano Ronaldo and “trivialising” rape allegations against him.
Joshua hailed the football legend as investigations continue into a model’s abuse claims – allegations Ronaldo strongly denies.
ANTHONY Joshua was slammed last night after saying rape suspect Cristiano Ronaldo was his hero for “smiling” despite being “f***ed” by women.
The world heavyweight boxing champion said the Juventus footballer remained strong in the face of claims by US teacher Kathryn Mayorga that he raped her in a Las Vegas hotel in 2009.
Ronaldo has strongly denied allegations against him and said he will be working to clear his name. In a statement posted in October, he added: “Rape is an abominable crime that goes against everything that I am and believe in.”
Joshua, 29, said he admired the footballer’s handling of the crisis. Asked to name his sporting hero at a promotional event, the boxer replied: “Cristiano Ronaldo.
“I’ve always said two things you’d get f***ed for as an athlete is women and tax.
“He’s got f***ed for both and he’s still smiling, still strong.
“You need mental strength. He’s proved that. He’s a family man, he’s got that aspect, but still out working and he’s dedicated to what he does.
“So as a sportsman he’s had the issue of one side, he’s got the family on the other side, and he balances what he’s passionate about. He completes all the packages so I like Ronaldo for that reason.”
But Rape Crisis England and Wales national spokesman Katie Russell said: “It’s inappropriate, insensitive and disrespectful to make jokes or flippant remarks about allegations or instances of sexual violence and abuse in any context.
“Arguably, those in the public eye, who may be considered a role model to many, including impressionable young people, have a particular responsibility not to trivialise.
“As a society we need to develop more understanding about that if we are ever to see more of those impacted by sexual violence and abuse get the support they need and deserve.’’
BOXER Anthony Joshua is widely regarded as a nice guy.
His humble and easy going nature have endeared him to millions.
Lucrative sponsors have jumped on the back of his squeaky-clean image – making him millions of pounds in the process.
But his comments about the Ronaldo rape investigation are a big mis-step.
Dismissing alleged sexual offences is offensive.
He has diminished potential victims by branding them money-grabbing liars out to make a quick buck.
This isn’t the only time the heavyweight has aired questionable views.
A year ago he was branded “sexist” for comments about his niece.
We hope he thinks twice before he opens his mouth in future.
Because his Mr Nice image could be permanently damaged if his controversial outbursts continue.