Wayne Bridge has withdrawn from his scheduled boxing match against KSI just two days after the fight was announced, following controversial comments made by the YouTube star about Bridge’s ex-girlfriend and John Terry.
The former Chelsea and England footballer was set to face KSI in Manchester on March 29 as part of a Misfits Boxing event.
Bridge announced his decision on Monday afternoon through Instagram, stating that comments made during Saturday night’s face-off had “crossed a line” and affected multiple families involved in the situation.
The withdrawal comes after a heated exchange at the Misfits Boxing 20 event where KSI made personal jibes about Bridge’s past.
KSI made jokes about Wayne Bridge’s former relationship with Vanessa Perroncel
Misfits
During the face-off, KSI taunted Bridge by saying: “Aren’t you the guy that let John Terry smash your ex?”
When Bridge responded “You want to go there straightaway do you?”
KSI continued: “I’m pretty sure that’s what you’re known for.”
The YouTube star then led the crowd in chants of “Vanessa woah, Vanessa woah”, referencing Bridge’s former partner Vanessa Perroncel.
The comments referred to historical allegations of an affair between Perroncel and Bridge’s former Chelsea teammate John Terry.
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In a lengthy statement posted to Instagram, Bridge explained his initial reasons 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.”
The 44-year-old emphasised his love for boxing as part of his training routine but stated the recent comments had gone too far.
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KSI has been criticised by Wayne Bridge for his comments
PA
“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,” Bridge wrote.
He added: “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.”
Perroncel has consistently denied the allegations of an affair with Terry, which date back to 2009, and possesses legal documents supporting her position.
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Wayne Bridge took to Instagram to write a statement
Bridge concluded his statement by looking ahead: “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.”
He expressed gratitude for the support he has received: “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.”