The boxing world witnessed a rare moment of camaraderie as two of its biggest stars, Roy Jones Jr. and Artur Beterbiev, the undisputed light heavyweights of the 20th and 21st century respectively, came together for a meet and greet. Attended by fans and promoters alike, the event also featured world champion boxer Shabaz Masoud at Mr T’s in Bradford in the UK. The meet and greet was organized by Al Medina to raise funds for their charity.

In an interview after the meet and greet, Jones Jr. and Beterbiev shared their thoughts on the sport, their careers, and of course each other. The conversation was facilitated by promoter Spencer Fearon, who brought the two boxing icons together for a lively discussion. One of the most interesting moments of the conversation came when Artur Beterbiev was asked about one of Jones Jr’s most famous fights.

Roy Jones Jr. and his legendary moment in boxing history

The conversation shifted to Roy Jones Jr.’s iconic 1994 bout against James Toney for Toney’s IBF super middleweight title. In that fight, he famously taunted his rival by putting his hand straight out and leaning his head back, baiting an attack from Toney, a daring move that showcased his confidence and skill. However, Toney, mirroring his counterpart, attempted to do the same, trying to show off what he could do as well. That was all Jones needed. Seizing the opportunity, Jones quickly followed it with a leaping gazelle hook that resulted in a knockdown, cementing the fight’s place in boxing history.

Artur Beterbiev was asked if he remembered the fight. “I seen like many fights, I don’t know which one,“ Beterbiev replied in his interview with the Boxing King Media. When reminded of the specifics of the fight, Beterbiev’s memory was jogged. “I remember this fight,“ he admitted.

When asked if he had ever tried a similar move in the ring, the Russian-Canadian boxer remained humble, stating: “No. I’m not so good boxer to do these things.“ Quick to disagree with Beterbiev’s self-deprecation, Jones Jr. replied, “That’s not true.“

Artur Beterbiev’s humility was on full display as he acknowledged the boxing legend’s superior skill. The fight in question was a moment that cemented Jones Jr’s status as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

Artur Beterbiev and his winning mentality

After his controversial win over Dmitry Bivol, Artur Beterbiev made a shocking statement. Despite a historic win, the Russian-Canadian boxer refused to acknowledge himself as a good boxer. Similarly, willingness to acknowledge his own limitations and strive for improvement was a recurring theme throughout the conversation.

When asked about Beterbiev’s humble assessment of his own abilities, Jones Jr. offered some insightful commentary. “I have a special appreciation for that. Because what he is basically saying is that I’m not through learning. Once you get through learning, it’s time for you to stop. You understand me?” Jones Jr. explained.

Analyzing Beterbiev’s mentality, the former four-division world champ concluded by saying, “He’s telling you I’m not where I want to be yet. So, he is still going, he is still on incline. And that says a lot about him. He is already 38, but he is still on the incline. So that tells you who he is. What he is planning on doing [is] that he is not stopping with where he is at now. He is not accepting good enough. And when you accept ‘good enough’, it’s time for you to quit.” Lastly, Beterbiev nodded in agreement, stating: “You understand me.”

Roy Jones Jr.’s response to Beterbiev’s modesty was insightful and revealing. By praising Beterbiev’s mentality, Jones Jr. was highlighting the importance of humility and a growth mindset in achieving success. 

Do you think such a mentality will help Artur Beterbiev in shutting down his critics with a dominating performance in a potential Dmitry Bivol rematch?