Wayne Bridge withdraws from KSI fight after taunt about ex-girlfriend

Wayne Bridge called himself a 'family man' and said he was prioritising protecting his family. Photo / Getty Images

Wayne Bridge was meant to be the latest sportsperson to enter the ring with an internet celebrity, YouTuber KSI.

Just two days after the fight was announced though, the former Chelsea and England left-back has pulled out, saying his opponent had “crossed a line” after taunting him about his ex-girlfriend’s alleged affair with John Terry.

The pair squared up in the ring at a “Misfits Boxing” event over the weekend, broadcast live on DAZN, and were due to meet in the ring on March 29.

Taking the mic, KSI said to Bridge: “Aren’t you the guy that let John Terry smash your ex?” In response, Bridge asked: “You want to go there straight away, do you?” KSI replied: “I’m pretty sure that’s what you’re known for.”

KSI then began chanting “Vanessa, woah, Vanessa, woah” in reference to Bridge’s ex-girlfriend, Vanessa Perroncel, before making a crude remark about her alleged affair with Terry.

In 2009, Bridge and Perroncel, who have a son together, split following the allegations she and former Chelsea captain Terry had an affair, claims she denied.

In an Instagram statement announcing his withdrawal from the fight, Bridge said he was “a family man” and protecting them came first.

“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.”

In 2018, KSI took on another YouTube star in the ring, Logan Paul. The pair battled out a majority draw in an underwhelming conclusion to their grudge boxing match with two of the three judges scored the six-rounder 57-57, with the third giving it to KSI 58-57.

The pair, who have since come together to create the drink Prime, fought in front of a 20,000-strong crowd and millions of viewers on YouTube.