Wayne Bridge has pulled out of his fight with KSI after the YouTuber made crass comments about his ex-girlfriend.
Ex-Chelsea and Manchester City defender Bridge signed to fight KSI in Manchester on March 29. But he has pulled out of the fight after the social media star taunted him about his ex-girlfriend and her alleged affair with former teammate John Terry.
In a statement, Bridge said: “I’m sure a lot of you have seen what happened on Saturday night at the Misfits Boxing event. Firstly, I think it’s important that I explain my reason for accepting the fight. I always like to challenge myself. This felt like a good opportunity to go up against an interesting opponent on a big stage.
“I have always loved boxing as part of my everyday training routine. I was fully prepared to train hard and have some fun. Of course, I expected to face some criticism, but I feel like what was said on Saturday crossed a line. These are deeply personal comments that affect mine and other families involved in the situation. I’m a family man first and my priority is protecting them.
“My opponent is someone that many children look up to around the world, including my kids. I hope one day he will look back on this differently. I personally don’t want to be involved in these exchanges. I will no longer be fighting on March 29. I’m still looking out for my next big challenge and have some exciting things coming up in 2025. Thanks for all the love. The support has been overwhelming. I want my friends and family to know how special they are. Deep down I know this is the right thing to do.”
When facing off with Bridge, KSI said: “Aren’t you the guy that let John Terry smash your ex?” Bridge retorted: “You want to go there straightaway do you?” KSI continued: “I’m pretty sure that’s what you’re known for.” The Sidemen member the started a chant of ‘Vanessa woah, Vanessa woah’. Bridge’s ex-girlfriend always denied she had had an affair with Terry.
KSI has not fought since he was beaten by Tommy Fury over a year ago. He claimed on Saturday that he was fighting Bridge after his first-choice opponent pulled out. KSI made his announcement ahead of the main event of Misfits 20 which saw Darren Till stop Anthony Taylor in the sixth round. Till has made it clear he is willing to step in and face KSI in March.
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