Dmitry Bivol, the reigning world champion in the light heavyweight division, discussed in an exclusive interview with Telecomasia.net why he felt he wouldn't stand a chance against Roy Jones if they were both at their peak.
"I have a normal self-esteem. If Roy Jones was the top fighter in my weight class today, I would want to fight against him. I would feel confident going into the ring against him, and try to believe in my victory. Right now, that's not the case. In my mind, Jones remains a legend. I grew up watching him, and he’s like someone you can't compare yourself to, like a teacher. I haven't crossed that line to think I could tear him apart. Firstly, it's impossible. Secondly, I want to maintain my respect and admiration for the legend. I don’t even want to compare myself to him," said Bivol.
Why did I smile (when I was asked about him in the last interview)? I heard Roy Jones say, 'In my prime, I would have beaten Bivol and Beterbiev.' It makes me laugh because in 2004, I could never have imagined Roy Jones saying he’d beat me. He put me on the level where he wants to prove he’s stronger than me. Of course, he would win; he’s Roy Jones.
It’s worth noting that back in 2019, Jones claimed he would have defeated Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev. He has repeatedly echoed this sentiment since then.
