Rape victims slam Anthony Joshua for his remarks about Cristiano Ronaldo’s case.

World Heavyweight Champion Anthony Joshua [Courtesy]

Anthony Joshua has been criticised by a rape victims' charity for comments he made about Cristiano Ronaldo.

Kathryn Mayorga alleges she was raped by Ronaldo in Las Vegas in 2009, claims he strongly denies.

Joshua was speaking at a promotional event ahead of his showdown with Jarrell Miller in New York this summer when he confirmed Ronaldo was his sporting hero.

"You need mental strength, he’s proved that. He’s a family man, he’s got that aspect, but still out working and he’s dedicated to what he does.

“So as a sportsman he’s had the issue of one side, he’s got the family on the other side, and he balances what he’s passionate about. He completes all the packages, so I like Ronaldo for that reason.”

But Joshua has been slammed by Rape Crisis England and Wales for his comments.

Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo faces rape allegations he strongly denies [Courtesy]

National Spokeswoman Katie Russell said: "It’s inappropriate, insensitive and disrespectful to make jokes or flippant remarks about allegations or instances of sexual violence and abuse in any context

"Arguably, those in the public eye, who may be considered a role model to many, including impressionable young people, have a particular responsibility not to trivialise such serious issues.

“Experiences of sexual violence and abuse can have wide-ranging and long-term impacts on victims’ and survivors’ health, lives and relationships.

"As a society, we need to develop more empathy and understanding about that if we are ever to see more of those impacted by sexual violence and abuse get the support they need, want and deserve.”