Belfast's world champion Ryan Burnett has called for 'no to sectarianism' after the fall-out from a promotion for the World Boxing Super Series showed him in front of a British flag.
Burnett hails from Newington in North Belfast. As an amateur, he won seven All Ireland titles and four Ulster titles. He also represented Ireland at the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics.
In the paid ranks Burnett has been prolific. He is now the WBA 'super' world champion with a perfect record of 19-0.
His remarkable rise recently saw him secure the top seed spot for the World Boxing Super Series Bantamweight competition. This will seem him face Nonito Donaire in an intriguing contest this November.
In promotional photos from this event, Burnett was pictured in front of British flags. He took to social media to address this and asked to be treated "as an equal."
To me this means nothing! I treat everyone as an equal, we are all the same no matter what religion you may choose to be. Treat me well and I’ll treat you even better regardless of your background that’s who I am.
