In a surprising turn of events, boxer Tommy Fury has officially withdrawn from the upcoming season of I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! just weeks before the stars were set to depart for the Australian jungle. The 25-year-old has opted for a more lucrative opportunity, reportedly a rematch with YouTube boxing sensation KSI, which is expected to yield a significantly higher payday.
Fury, the younger half-brother of heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, had been in discussions with ITV producers for several months, making his last-minute decision all the more unexpected. Industry insiders had speculated that Tommy would use his platform on the reality show to discuss his tumultuous relationship with fellow contestant Molly Mae Hague, which had garnered significant media attention following their public breakup earlier this year.
A source close to the show remarked, “Bosses are surprised Tommy has chosen to pull out at this late stage. It would have been a great opportunity for him.” The production team is already looking at alternative celebrity candidates, ensuring they deliver an exciting lineup for viewers. With only weeks remaining until filming, producers are keen to finalize the cast, which is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic in the show’s history.
Among the anticipated stars is WAG icon Coleen Rooney, as well as Dancing on Ice judge Oti Mabuse and NDubz singer Tulisa. The celebrity contestants are expected to arrive in Australia around mid-November, just ahead of the three-week run of the show, hosted once again by Ant and Dec.
Tommy was seen as a perfect fit for the series, especially after his rise to fame on ITV’s Love Island. His recent high-profile breakup with Molly Mae added an element of intrigue, as fans were eager to hear his side of the story during candid moments around the campfire. However, the financial allure of boxing continues to outshine reality television for Tommy, who narrowly defeated KSI in their previous bout last year.
KSI, who recently wrapped up a judging stint on Britain’s Got Talent, expressed his dissatisfaction with the outcome of their last fight, calling it a “robbery” and claiming that he had won. He is now eager for a rematch, which has likely played a significant role in Tommy’s decision to withdraw from the reality show.
While I’m A Celebrity execs have not made an official statement regarding Tommy’s departure, the show’s reputation for securing engaging personalities remains strong. With a slate of exciting contestants lined up, the production team is focused on delivering another thrilling season to its devoted audience.
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