Milorad Cavic challenges Phelps in battle of suits

Cavic wants phelps to wear the same suit as him to ensure a level playing field for today's 100m rematch

Milorad Cavic challenges Phelps in battle of suits

Cavic wants phelps to wear the same suit as him to ensure a level playing field for today's 100m rematch

Serbian butterfly specialist Milorad Cavic said yesterday that he would be happy to buy a bodysuit for American superstar swimmer Michael Phelps, if he needed one.

The American-born Cavic was controversially beaten by Phelps in the 100m butterfly final at the Beijing Olympics, but still maintains that he touched first, however the electronic timing system failed.

Cavic topped the heats for the event at the World Championships to qualify for the semi-finals and immediately threw down the gauntlet to Phelps, who had the third-fastest time.

He said about claims that Phelps was swimming in an inferior swimsuit that the American had options. "In the media it has been portrayed that he has no options - that is a complete lie. He has some.

"I think there are three options for Michael. First option is to use the suit he is wearing, the second option is to get one of these suits and I guarantee you that Arena will provide one within the hour, as soon as he wants.

"The third option would actually be a dream of mine. It is to have the whole final, everybody swimming in briefs.
I swear to God, this would be it, this is what I want, but this is the most unrealistic of all scenarios."

Cavic made an offer to secure Phelps an all-polyurethane bodysuit.

"I am saying if Mike wants an Arena (one of the companies producing a bodysuit and Cavic's sponsor) he just has to say it. Whatever he wants."

He said that he believed it was Phelps' choice to stick with his suit and suit-manufacturer. "I know he is making a lot of money from Speedo.

"I don't know if it is loyalty, but through all my experience I have learnt this, free will is a gift with a price tag and whatever you choose you will pay for it.u00a0 How much you will pay for it, is really up to you."