New York: American boxer Anthony Taylor has broken his silence after facing backlash over remarks made ahead of his bout against Indian boxer Neeraj Goyat, firmly denying that he disrespected India or its people.
The controversy erupted following Taylor’s loss to Goyat by unanimous decision at a recent Misfits Boxing event. Soon after the fight, videos circulated on social media showing a heated exchange between the two boxers backstage, including an incident in which Taylor threw a water bottle, further fuelling criticism and outrage among fans.
Taylor was accused online of making derogatory comments about India in the build-up to the fight, with claims that he had insulted Indian culture, food and hygiene. Responding to the allegations, Taylor issued a clarification on social media, stating that the accusations were exaggerated and misleading. He insisted that he never made comments targeting Indian people or culture and rejected claims that he had shown disrespect towards the country.
According to Taylor, his pre-fight remarks were limited to questioning India’s position in the global boxing landscape and were intended as competitive trash talk rather than personal or cultural attacks. He said he accepted his defeat and acknowledged Goyat’s performance, urging critics to stop circulating what he described as false narratives.
The bout itself saw Neeraj Goyat dominate proceedings with a controlled and disciplined display, winning all six rounds on the judges’ scorecards. While the post-fight confrontation drew attention away from the contest, Taylor’s statement appears aimed at closing the chapter on the controversy.
As reactions continue to pour in, Taylor has said he wants to move forward professionally and refocus on his boxing career, leaving the episode behind.
