Why Wayne Bridge cancelled KSI fight in just 48 hours after 'deeply personal comments'

Former Chelsea defender Wayne Bridge has announced he is stepping away from his scheduled bout with KSI due to distasteful remarks made by the YouTube star about his ex-girlfriend, which referenced an alleged affair with past teammate John Terry.

Originally lined up to face KSI on 29 March in Manchester, Bridge decided to withdraw following comments made during the Misfits Boxing event.

He explained: "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."

During the face-off with Bridge, KSI didn't hold back, taunting: "Aren't you the guy that let John Terry smash your ex? " To which Bridge hit back, saying: "You want to go there straightaway do you? " Unperturbed, KSI pressed further: "I'm pretty sure that's what you're known for.", reports the Mirror.

KSI then led chants of 'Vanessa woah, Vanessa woah'—though Bridge's ex has always denied any affair with Terry. KSI, whose last fight was a loss to Tommy Fury over a year ago, revealed on Saturday he'd been set to fight Bridge after his initial opponent dropped out.

In the lead-up to Misfits 20's main event, where Darren Till defeated Anthony Taylor in the sixth round, KSI announced his decision, noting Till's willingness to take him on in March.