Julio Cesar Chavez, the boxing legend, says he'd rather watch UFC than boxing these days. He thinks UFC offers more real fights and pits the best against the best.
Chavez told KOlmenero that he respects MMA, even though he finds it cruel and wouldn't step into the octagon himself.
"My respects to MMA. The truth is I wouldn't get into a ring like that, it's very cruel, very sadistic, but it's a nice sport. There are real fights, there the best fight with the best. That's why people do go to see them, however, they don't earn a lot of money."
The Mexican icon didn't hold back when comparing UFC fighters' earnings to those of boxers. He thinks MMA athletes deserve more for what they put their bodies through.
"The fucking mess of fights that you see in boxing and they earn 40 or 50 million, where from? Those bastards should earn much more than the boxers because they do break their mother."
Chavez has been vocal about his disappointment with modern boxing before. He's complained about Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez's performances in the past.
But the former champion understands why boxers chase big paydays. He acknowledges that most fighters come from humble backgrounds and want to provide for their families.
"I find it incredible the money they are making. But it's good for boxing, it's good for the boys. All boxers come from a humble family, we want to get our families ahead and in the end that's what you are looking for, to make more money."
Chavez's comments highlight the ongoing debate about fight quality and fighter pay in combat sports. While he praises UFC for delivering exciting matchups, he also recognizes boxing's ability to change lives through financial rewards.
