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Hardcore boxing fans have not been impressed with the arrival of influencer boxing but Tony Bellew sees things very differently.

Last weekend showcased another Misfits event which featured some bizarre bouts, including a tag-team boxing match, the awful Paul vs Danis fight and the hugfest between KSI and Tommy Fury.

But speaking to SecondsOut the former Cruiserweight champion praises KSI’s influence on the sport despite the criticism from the boxing fraternity.

He said:

“Do you know how many kids these are attracting to boxing gyms? I give them so much credit for that. I’ve spoken to him, JJ is a lovely kid, the kid works hard.

"It’s funny how we don’t have outrage when celebrities wanna play a game of football.

"Why are we absolutely raging when celebrities wanna have a boxing match? These journalists or even boxers coming out and saying, ‘It’s a disgrace.’ Why is it a disgrace? They’re not taking money off your table.

"It’s insane people’s rage towards them, I just don’t get it at all. Fair play to them.”

Has Bellew got a point?

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