Pulev will challenge world heavyweight champion Joshua in London on December 12 in a much delayed clash
Pulev, who will face world heavyweight champion Joshua in London on December 12, said earlier this week that his rival had a « better tan »
Pulev’s comments have been heavily criticized and the Bulgarian challenger has now issued a statement in response
He said: « I would never, under any circumstances, allow myself to disrespect another human being for racial, ethnic or religious reasons
« This is what I teach my little nephews all the time. Each of us was born on this earth with equal rights, and skin color does not matter
« I can’t believe my comments about Anthony Joshua were taken out of context. It didn’t even occur to me to discredit another athlete because of the color of his skin!
« Among my friends there are people of different races and ethnicities They are all great and worthy people as well as my very good long time friends whom I respect and love
« It is 2020 and I truly hope people stop this narrow-mindedness and human beings intellectually evolve to realize that the human qualities that are truly precious in this world are not manifested on the outside. , but through the power of man the spirit and the virtues that we carry within us!
« Therefore, if anyone was offended by my words, I hope they will try to understand exactly what I meant by them and if they cannot understand me, then accept my sincere apologies «
Joshua and Pulev were due to face off four months ago before the coronavirus crisis called off the fight
Rivals will now face off behind closed doors at The O2 Arena, unless restrictions are lifted and fans are allowed
Joshua said: « December 12th is the date and once again the Heavyweight belts are going up in the air and my only goal is to make sure December 13th they are in their place in the UK
« The O2 is the original lion’s den, I have a lot of history with the arena, but without the fans something huge is missing. I really hope that if security the lets, we might be able to attract some boxing fans, but we’ll have to seeI respect every opponent and I respect Pulev I wish him good luck in his preparation «
And Pulev added: « For a small country in Bulgaria, defending the heavyweight titles is a big achievement
« This fight is for my late father and all Bulgarians around the world! I am coming to London to win the World Heavyweight Championship »
Kubrat Pulev, Anthony Joshua, Boxing, Tyson Fury, Heavyweight, The O2
News from around the world – UK – Kubrat Pulev denies making racist comments about Anthony Joshua’s skin
SOURCE: https://www.w24news.com
