The Seven-time former world motorcyle champion Valentino Rossi has hit back at reigning world champion Casey Stoner after comments the Australian made following the pair's thrilling battle at Sunday's US Grand Prix.
The Italian won the race at Laguna Seca after he overtook Stoner with a daring pass on the fourth lap.
He held on until the 23rd lap when Stoner slid into the gravel at the start of the home straight as he pushed to take back the lead.
Stoner complaining after the race that Rossi's tactics were dubious.
Rossi says Stoner told him on the podium that he'd lost respect for him as he'd never encountered a race like that but Rossi says all his race were like that and his rivals always fought that way.
The result at Laguna Seca leaves Rossi with a 25 point lead over Stoner at the top of the standings.
There are seven races left and a possible 175 points up for grabs.
