Nikolai Valuev Turns Down “Ridiculous” Chance To Publicly Murder Evander Holyfield

That was quick.
Just hours after Evander Holyfield announced that he was seeking a shot at Nikolai Valuev’s WBA heavyweight crown in whatever venue would clear his broken down body for fistic action, the champion has already turned down the challenge. It’s not that Nikolai is afraid of “The Real Deal.” Quite the contrary. By using the term “ridiculous” to describe the potential match-up, Valuev is showing the world his heart, since he’d rather not be Ivan Drago to Evander’s Apollo Creed.

Holyfield has been in negotiations with Valuev’s promoter, Wilfred Sauerland, but the Russian’s manager, Boris Dimitrov, said last night: “We have nothing but respect for Evander Holyfield and we revere his amazing accomplishments. I don’t want to insult Mr Holyfield but he is nearly 46. Nikolai doesn’t want to box him. That will be ridiculous.”

Holyfield is 46 years old, and it’s obvious to everyone but him that he’s not the fighter he once was. He’s not even a shade of that fighter. We have to commend Valuev for the humanitarian effort here, since he could have taken the money and, in all likelihood, an easy win. Valuev is not a household name, but it’s better to be an anonymous champion than know as the guy who turned Evander Holyfield’s brains into tapioca.
We salute you, Nikolai Valuev. Sadly, we are sure someone will take your place.
Valuev dismisses Holyfield challenge as ‘ridiculous’ [UK Guardian]
Image [TSN]