Getting underestimated wasn't a bad thing. Especially if it's by enemies. Varian learned this long, long ago.
So, when Avnir gave him a disdained sneer as they faced each other, he responded with a smile.
"If we really went the normal way, you would've been eliminated without even entering top 4. Seems like you know your true worth and used her name to come so far." Avnir spat out the harsh words without even putting up any pretense of politeness.
Varian wanted to argue that he would've grown stronger and reached this stage anyway. But he decided not to debate with a fool.
Avnir was selected by Varian to be his duel opponent. The gesture was blatantly pointing out that he's the weakest amongst the four. Even if it's the truth, Avnir was still pissed off after being called out.
Whatever reasoning might be offered, he'd not be any less cruel.