Former world champion boxer David Haye has faced renewed criticism after doubling down on controversial comments about women following his appearance on the reality show I’m A Celebrity South Africa.
The 45-year-old has already drawn backlash for his conduct on the programme, where viewers and fellow contestants criticised what they described as “bullying” behaviour towards Adam Thomas and “fat-shaming” remarks aimed at Gemma Collins.
Haye also sparked controversy for comments about his partner, Sian Osborne, claiming she had what he described as “ugly duckling syndrome,” a remark that prompted widespread backlash and calls from viewers for his removal from the show. He was later voted out by fellow contestants, though he is set to return for the live final.
In a recent interview, Haye reiterated his views, saying that if someone were to speak in the dark with “10 busted up, ugly chicks,” their personalities would, “in my opinion, [be] significantly better” than those of “10 supermodels.” He added: “I’m saying my girlfriend has a personality of an ugly bird which sounds harsh when you say it, but it’s just how it is, it’s the truth and people don’t like the truth.”
Asked whether he considered himself a feminist, Haye responded: “It depends what your version of feminism is. If we’re drafted to go to war, women won’t be drafted in the UK, right? So, no, we’re not equal.”
Despite ongoing criticism, Haye dismissed concerns about his behaviour, saying: “This has been the real David. Whether you think I’m the sexist or a bully, that’s your opinion, from a TV show that’s been edited. If they think that, then good luck to them, I don’t really care.”
His comments have continued to draw strong reactions from both viewers and fellow contestants. Thomas previously said the experience on the show had “broken” him, though he later confirmed that Haye had apologised. In a subsequent podcast appearance, Thomas became emotional as he revealed he had sought therapy following his treatment on the show, which also involved fellow contestant Jimmy Bullard.
The controversy has kept Haye at the centre of debate surrounding conduct on reality television and the boundaries of acceptable behaviour on-screen.