For years, the image of a black man or woman as sexualised, savage, uncivilised has been used as a racial stereotype in opposition.to cultured, civilised, intellectual whites.
It's pretty offensive, as it continues a racist trope over a period of centuries. I think it's safe to say where they were heading.
“Linford Christie is way out in front in every department, and we don’t just mean the way he stormed to victory in the 100 metres. His skin tight lycra shorts hide little as he pounds down the track and his Olympic-sized talents are a source of delight to women around the world. But the mystery remains- just what does Linford, 32, pack in that famous lunchbox?”
(The Sun 6/8/92)
The stereotype is even repeated when reporting about him complaining about it, too!