Pope Francis will “punch” anyone who insults his mother.

The religious leader confessed he wouldn’t hesitate in giving someone a black eye if they were to make derogatory comments about his mum, while discussing freedom of speech.

According to the Daily Mirror newspaper, while referring to colleague Alberto Gasparri, he said: “It is true that you must not react violently, but although we are good friends if my good friend Dr. Gasparri says a curse word against my mother, he can expect a punch.”

The 78-year-old sovereign continued: “It’s normal. You cannot provoke. You cannot insult the faith of others. You cannot make fun of the faith of others.”

The pope was explaining that although everyone has the right to free speech, they also have the right to be offended.