Karim Benzema’s cousin bizarrely quits boxing match after in-ring protest

French boxing heavyweight and cousin of Karim Benzema, Newfel Ouatah, 36, launched a bizarre protest before throwing a punch leaving fans, and his opponent, utterly bemused.

Ouatah, was last in the ring 15 months ago but was unable to throw a single punch in his eagerly anticipated Canadian return, deciding instead to form a protest and quit the fight.

With his opponent Simon Kean pacing towards him ready for a fight, Ouatah dropped to the canvas on a single knee, raising one fist in a sign of protest as the fight was due to commence.

Kean, clearly bemused by his opponent’s strange behaviour, proceeded to throw a weak jab at the 36-year-old Frenchman which knocked him over.

Fans remained completely astonished as the inaugural blow appeared somewhat awkward rather than exciting.

With one boxer taking a knee and the other unsure how to continue, the referee stepped in, deciding to join Ouatah’s level in order to communicate with him.

After a brief discussion, it was established that Ouatah would not be fighting and Kean was awarded a first-round stoppage victory.

In a Twitter clip posted by @Weleylamotte, it is clear neither Kean nor the fans are aware of what Ouatah is supposed to be protesting.

Ouatah has since taken to social media to explain his bizarre outburst claiming a dispute over insurance.

Supposedly, the Federation Francaise de Boxe – Ouatah’s local commission – refused to cover injuries or grave consequences as a result of any fight. Very unorthodox behaviour from a boxing commission.

Event promoters have astutely refuted these claims.

Fans were left shocked and understandably furious as a fight they had bought tickets to, finished before it had even started.

What was that? #boxing #eyeofthetiger