David Haye announces boycott as I'm A Celebrity row takes fresh twist

David Haye has confirmed he is boycotting reality TV shows in the wake of his appearance on I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here!

The former heavyweight boxing champion faced allegations of bullying behaviour towards series winner Adam Thomas, alongside criticism over comments deemed misogynistic during the South Africa edition of the programme.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Haye laughed off any suggestion of returning to reality television.

"Will I return to reality TV?" Haye said. "No! Definitely no plans I'm still dealing with the last one I did."

Following his interview, Haye posted on social media to address the mounting interest in his dispute with the broadcaster.

"I've been inundated with people wanting a statement in regards to the legal situation with ITV and this defamation case. The answer is yes I am I don't like people taking advantage I'm going to take it as far as it needs to go," he stated.

The 45-year-old also raised questions about the authenticity of what viewers see on screen.

"When you're right and the decision comes down to a judge they'll realise that this reality TV might not be that real, maybe it's manipulated heavily and directed in a certain narrative for a specific reason," Haye added.

Turning his attention to boxing matters, Haye provided his perspective on Daniel Dubois' brief partnership with trainer Tony Sims ahead of Saturday's WBO heavyweight title fight against Fabio Wardley in Manchester.

According to Haye, the collaboration collapsed due to incompatible philosophies.

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"I've heard that things didn't work out with Tony Sims because his approach was very movement-focused," he explained.

"The word going around is that Daniel Dubois flat-out refused he didn't want to move his head so he essentially said no."

Dubois has since reunited with Don Charles, whose emphasis on punch volume rather than defensive movement appears better suited to the fighter's natural instincts, Haye suggested.

"Fighters can sometimes use coaches as scapegoats, but ultimately it's the person in the ring throwing the punches," he observed.

Haye is backing the undefeated Wardley to emerge victorious this weekend, particularly if Dubois adopts a stationary approach.

"Fabio Wardley is on a serious run he always seems to find a way," Haye said, praising the champion's durability and knack for grinding down opponents.

"If I'm a betting man, I'm backing Wardley to find a way you can't just stand there and take shots," he added.

While acknowledging it would be unfair to question any fighter's courage, Haye noted Dubois will likely need to absorb significant punishment against Wardley's power.

Looking ahead, Haye expressed doubt that Oleksandr Usyk would face the winner, suggesting the Ukrainian would prefer a legacy bout against Deontay Wilder.