Anthony "The Man" Mundine has ignited racial tensions in Australia after announcing that he won't stand for he national anthem prior to his fight with Danny Green in Adelaide this weekend.
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald ahead of the bout, he said: "It's a racist anthem [Advance Australia Fair] and doesn't represent our people.
"It's disrespectful to our people. And this is close to my heart. I like Jessica [Mauboy] but it's not for our people. They are just using her because she is black.
"First and foremost I want to focus on the fight. I'm not trying to divide people or be controversial but you've asked the question and I'm answering it honestly to tell people where I stand. We're not young and free.
"My people are still being oppressed. Nothing's changed ... the anthem isn't right. It's not for all of Australia. I just can't stand up for something I don't believe in."
The wait for the rematch is over! @Anthony_Mundine vs @dannygreenboxer this Friday on Main Event from 7pm #MundineGeen2 #MANVMACHINE pic.twitter.com/VICHAHQZ6I
— MAIN EVENT (@MainEventTV) January 29, 2017
Mundine is due to rematch Danny Green in a repeat of their 2006 bout, which he won by unanimous decision, at the Adelaide Oval on Friday.
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